The Episcopate and Indian Government are in constant and close contact and the bishops have expressed their gratitude for what has already been done. "We are grateful to the Indian government, particularly the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Sushma Swaraj, for their serious and sincere efforts to follow the process of discovery and release of Fr Tom."
At the same time, however, the bishops noted that there is no "precise response" on the manner of the kidnapping of the missionary, nor the identity of his kidnappers.
Deploring the "macabre news" circulating in the media which adds to the anguish of family members of the kidnapped priest, the Indian bishops also state that "it would be in the interest of our country to make an effort to check the veracity of these unpleasant rumours."
In addition to the Foreign Minister, the Prime Minister Narenda Modi and Minister of the Interior, Rajnath Singh, have also been urged to put in place an "urgent action to ensure the safety of Fr Tom".
The message of the prelates also reports that the Vatican is intensifying efforts through its diplomatic channels.
The bishops also announced that an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has promised a meeting with Minister Swaraj at the most opportune time, to share the "available and relevant information" on the case of the kidnapped missionary.
