July 16, 2014
To
Smt. Sushma Swaraj
Cabinet Minister of External Affairs, Government of India
Dear Madam,
Greetings to you from the National Council of Churches in India!
The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) is concerned about the present conflict between Israel and Palestine in West Asia. It has been reported that around 184 Palestinians died and more than 1,330 people are wounded. The majority of the victims are Civilians, Children
and Elderly people. The Hamas has also fired rockets inside Israel. The violence of both sides is condemnable.
International Humanitarian laws are violated and the Israeli Government in particular has not ensured protection of civilians. As you are aware, the UN Security Council last Saturday called for a ceasefire between the Israelis and Palestinians and the protection of civilians. It is imperative that the Israeli Government abides by the UN peace initiatives.
India the largest democratic country in Asia needs to be proactive in advocating the protection dignity and nationhood of all people. If the occupation continues,
the violence in the region will also continue. We earnestly request the Government of India to pressurize the Israeli Government immediately to call for a halt to Israeli offensive and urge them to explore and implement a solution which will do justice to all people, Israelis and Palestinians.
The National Council of Churches is a fellowship of Protestant and Orthodox Churches in India representing about 14 million Christians. We are committed to justice, peace and the well being of all.
We pray for you as you have newly taken over as Minister
of External Affairs, Government of India. May your statesmanship impact the world in the cause of international justice, harmony, peace and growth.
Yours sincerely,
Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad
General Secretary, NCC India.
