Gandhi, who lent a sympathetic ear to the woes of Christians in the region, was able to instil in them a sense of security. Contrary to expectations, her visit lasted three hours.

She chose the occasion to drive home the point that she was above religion by repeatedly answering ``I am here in the capacity of Indian National Congress President,'' when asked, ``Which religion do you follow?''

After visiting the Deep Darshan School in Ahwa and the Navjyot School in Sabir, which have been attacked by Hindu fundamentalists, she accepted memorandums from the minorities. ``There is a feeling of extreme fear and terror. The attackers seem to have the blessings of a section of the Gujarat government,'' she said.

Sonia Gandhi said she had specifically asked the missionaries whether there wasforcible conversion in the region, and that she had been told there was not a single case of forcible conversion.

She parried a question on whether the attacks had anything to do with her rise in the Congress party. ``I don't understand the aim behind the attacks. By spreading violence things get worse,'' she opined, adding for effect, ``We have to spread brotherhood and amity.'' She said her party had already taken up the matter with the Presient of India.

Christian leaders in separate memorandums pointed out that ``the attackers were systematically targeting Christians and their property'', and submitted a list detailing incidents that started with distribution of inflammatory pamphlets even before December, when the first clashes were reported.

The Christians also said the perpetrators should be brought to book, and asked the government not to underplay the incidents of violence. They also submitted what they called clinching proof of the Hindu Jagaran Manch's involvement in the violence and itsaffiliation with the Sangh Parivar.

They told Sonia Gandhi that that once the media hype subsided and police was withdrawn, the attacks might take place again. The Christians have also attached great significance to the prime minister's impending visit to the region.