Telangana Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan today extended her wishes to the Christian community in the state a day ahead of Good Friday.
In a message, she said, "Good Friday is observed by Christians all over the world in memory of the crucification of Jesus Christ. He showered great love on all human beings and made the ultimate sacrifice for their welfare. Tomorrow, His sacrifices will be remembered once again with solemn hymns and prayers of thanksgiving. On the auspicious day of Good Friday, I appeal to all of you to safely observe the occasion by adhering to all the preventive norms to contain the spread of the second wave of Covid-19 in Telangana."
Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao also wished the people on the occasion. Recalling Jesus Christ's commitment to humanity and His teachings on the matter, the CM added, "Christ's teachings of peace, patience, and of loving even one's enemies, should be the way forward for everybody."
Like the Governor, KCR too urged the Christian community to conduct the Good Friday prayers tomorrow in accordance with the Covid-19 safety guidelines.
One wonders how the wishes will be received by the Christian community which has reportedly been left disappointed by the curbs placed on religious gatherings in a GO dated March 27, which is aimed at preventing the spread of Covid-19 in the state following a
rise in the number of reported cases.
The community will be forced, due to the GO, to spend Good Friday and Easter in their homes instead of at churches.
Many Christians have voiced their unhappiness with the decision, and have questioned the state government as to why religious gatherings have been banned when
cinema halls are still open and malls and pubs too continue to function normally. In fact, a group of Christian leaders even submitted a representation to Chief Secretary Somesh Kumar seeking permission to hold the Good Friday and Easter church services. The state government is reportedly looking into the matter.