The United Christian Forum for Human Rights (UCFHR) wishes to express its deep concern at the census ordered by the Government on the Muslim Community in Gujarat, as reported in sections of the press.

The very fact of the circular (D:2/2: Com/Muslim Activity/84/99 dated 1/2-02-99) and the offensive questions therein, is bound to hurt the sentiments of any community. Minority communities in Gujarat are already in the grip of fear and insecurity, this circular will definitely vitiate the atmosphere even further.

The circular like the one on the Christians is in violation of the fundamental rights of every citizen, as guaranteed in the Constitution of the country.

In the wider interests of the State and the Country, the UCFHR calls upon the Government to withdraw both circulars on the Muslims and the Christians totally and unconditionally, immediately.

Date : 15th February, '99 Fr. Cedric
Prakash sj
Place : Ahmedabad - 380 009 Coordinator