Mumbai Churches Deny Asking Worshippers To Sign Declarations Ahead Of Anti-Conversion Law Implementation
Mumbai: Mainstream Christian denominations in Mumbai have denied reports that churches in the city and its outskirts are asking worshippers to sign declarations stating that they attend religious services voluntarily and without any inducement. Concerns over new law The reports have surfaced ahead of the anti-conversion law, which is scheduled to come into force on August 28. While church groups…
Mumbai's mainstream Christian churches are denying allegations that they are requesting worshippers to sign declarations confirming their voluntary participation in religious services prior to the implementation of an anti-conversion law on August 28. This comes as concerns have been raised over the law's definition of "allurement," which could potentially encompass charitable, educational, and religious activities under police scrutiny.
The government maintains that the legislation is solely aimed at preventing forced and fraudulent religious conversions. Major denominations, including the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of North India, have stated they have not asked their members to sign any such documents. Cyril Dara, secretary of the Christian Reform United People Association, emphasized that their members are registered and have the freedom to choose their place of worship.
Melwyn Fernandes, secretary of the Association of Concerned Catholics, stated that Mumbai and Thane have over 100 Roman Catholic churches, none of which have requested similar declarations. However, some non-mainstream churches have reportedly begun using consent letters for regular attendees, asserting that these measures are primarily to protect their interests in the face of potential issues like violence or mob attacks.
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