Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vatican City (Fides Service) - An announced measure was supposed to revoke the anti-conversion law in Tamil Nadu but the government has not kept its promises. Christians call for this law of discrimination against minorities to be withdrawn immediately and officially. This was one of the points raised in a conversation with Fides by Mons. Jude Paulraj, Bishop of Palayamkottai diocese in Tamil Nadu (southern India). The anti-conversion law adopted also in other Indian states requires for conversions to be judged for authenticity by a magistrate. This is open violation of freedom of conscience according to human rights activists and civil and religious associations.
Although a minority group, the Catholic community is very active in promoting respect for human rights, especially for people without caste. “We suffered when the Baratiya Janata Party (BJP) was in power - the Bishop told Fides- because the Party encouraged Hindu fundamentalists all over India and there were attacks religious minorities and unleashed violence. However as Christians we must also make an examination of conscience and discourage the proselytising of some sects. The important thing is to maintain a secular state where there is full respect for freedom of belief”.
Mons. Paulraj affirms: “Our social service has no secondary objectives. It is service given freely by Catholics. I think of all the women religious working in schools, orphanages, lay Catholics involved in social institutions run by the Church, priests who devote their lives to service of education, particularly for peoples without caste. Although officially abolished the caste system is still present in India while the Church works to build a society of justice and brotherhood free of discrimination on any grounds”. In Palayamkottai diocese the Catholic community runs 11 schools, 49 social centres assisting people of all religions and social condition.
“Our relations with the civil authorities - the Bishop concludes - are cordial, despite our difficulties and sufferings. I pray that our faith will give us the strength to face suffering and give meaning to our life”. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 2/2/2005 righe 22 parole 235)
