Pope condemns attaack on Indian Christians

(IANS)

Pope Benedict XVI condemned Wednesday deadly attacks on Christian churches in the eastern Indian state of Orissa during religious riots that have left almost a dozen dead since Monday.

'While I firmly condemn every attack on human life, whose sacredness requires respect by all, I express my spiritual closeness and solidarity ...

Violence between Hindu and Christian communities was sparked Monday by the death of a local Hindu leader. Activists of the right-wing Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and its affiliate Bajrang Dal attacked churches, torched vehicles and stopped rail and road traffic in retaliation.

Pope Benedict also appealed to religious and community leaders to work together to ensure peaceful religious coexistence.