Kochi: The Syro Malabar Catholic Church has welcomed recent court interventions that protect religious freedom and minority rights, while expressing deep concern over the way anti conversion laws are being applied in several Indian states.
In a statement issued by its public affairs body, the Church said judicial observations reaffirming constitutional guarantees are a source of reassurance for religious minorities. It pointed to recent court remarks that made it clear that personal faith practices such as prayer meetings or the possession of religious books cannot be treated as criminal acts.
The Church referred to a case from Uttar Pradesh where police action was taken against Christians for allegedly violating conversion laws. While examining the matter, the Allahabad High Court reportedly observed that merely possessing or distributing the Bible does not amount to forced or illegal religious conversion. The Church said such clarity from the judiciary is essential at a time when faith practices are increasingly being viewed with suspicion.
According to the statement, several anti conversion laws are being misused on the ground, leading to harassment of ordinary believers, clergy and volunteers engaged in social and charitable work. The Church stressed that freedom of conscience and the right to profess and practice religion are guaranteed by the Constitution and cannot be curtailed through broad or arbitrary interpretations of the law.
The Syro Malabar Church also recalled recent judgments of the Supreme Court of India that upheld the rights of minority institutions, especially in the field of education. It said these rulings underline the role of the judiciary as a guardian of constitutional values in a diverse and plural society.
Emphasising its commitment to the secular framework of the country, the Church said it respects the intent to prevent forced or fraudulent conversions but warned that laws framed for that purpose should not be used to target peaceful religious expression. It urged authorities to ensure that law enforcement agencies act responsibly and in line with constitutional principles.
The statement concluded by appealing for continued judicial vigilance to protect fundamental rights and to ensure that India’s tradition of religious harmony is preserved.