Church voices in India are reflecting on a growing concern over children’s use of social media, following a proposal by the Government of Karnataka to restrict access for those under 16.

The proposal, announced by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has sparked debate across society. While details are still being discussed, the move has drawn attention to the increasing influence of digital platforms on young people.

Church leaders say the issue is not just about technology, but about the overall formation of children. Many point out that social media platforms are designed to keep users engaged, often affecting the mental and emotional well-being of young users. Studies have linked heavy use of social media to anxiety, depression, and loneliness among teenagers.

The Church has long focused on guiding young people through family life, education, and faith formation. However, leaders note that much of a child’s time is now spent online, where values and ideas are shaped by algorithms rather than real-life relationships.

At the same time, some acknowledge that social media also has positive uses. It helps young people stay connected, learn new things, and even explore their faith, especially where local support is limited.

There are also concerns that a complete ban may not be practical for all families. Not all children have equal access to other activities like sports or cultural programs.

Church leaders say the situation calls for careful thinking and balanced action. They stress the need for families, schools, and communities to play a stronger role in guiding children. The focus, they say, should be on creating a healthy environment where young people can grow with proper values and support.

Catholic Church leaders in India have raised concerns over a proposed amendment to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, saying it could increase government control over charitable organizations.

The amendment, approved by the Government of India on March 18, aims to strengthen oversight on the use of foreign funds. It includes a provision allowing the government to take control of assets created using foreign contributions if an organization’s license is suspended, canceled, surrendered, or not renewed.

The bill also introduces a new rule for automatic cancellation of registration if it expires or is not renewed. In addition, it sets clear timelines for receiving and using foreign funds to improve transparency and accountability.

Church representatives say the changes could seriously affect many non-governmental organizations, especially those run by Christian groups working among the poor. They fear that properties such as land, buildings, and funds could come under government control.

Some leaders have expressed concern that the amendment goes beyond regulation and gives direct control over civil society organizations. They warn that this could weaken the work of charities serving marginalized communities.

Legal experts have also pointed out that stricter rules may limit the freedom of organizations to function independently and access foreign support. They believe this could reduce services provided to the poor and disadvantaged.

According to official data, thousands of organizations have already lost their licenses in recent years, while many others remain active.

Critics say the proposed amendment may further restrict the role of civil society. They have called for a balanced approach that ensures transparency while protecting the independence of charitable organizations.

The Missionaries of Charity has warned that it may take legal action against individuals and groups misusing the name, image, and words of Mother Teresa for fundraising and publicity.

In a statement issued on March 19, the congregation said many organizations are using Mother Teresa’s name without permission, especially on websites and social media, to collect money and gain attention. The congregation expressed deep pain over such misuse, calling it misleading and against the values she lived for.

The statement said that despite repeated warnings, the misuse has continued. As a result, the congregation has now decided to take legal steps against some groups. It also pointed out that using her name for public events, awards, or fundraising in luxurious settings goes against her life of simplicity, humility, and poverty.

The congregation clarified that, according to Mother Teresa’s will, her name and image belong to her successors, and anyone wishing to use them must take permission. It also stressed that the Missionaries of Charity do not engage in fundraising, as it was against her principles.

Church leaders have supported this concern, saying the issue is serious and genuine. At the same time, some organizations claimed they have proper permission and are using her name only to promote values like peace and service.

Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity in 1950 in Kolkata. She dedicated her life to serving the poor and was declared a saint in 2016. Today, her congregation continues her mission in many countries around the world.

Anthony Cardinal Poola, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, extended warm greetings to the Muslim community in India on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.

In his message, he wished “dear Muslim brothers and sisters” and marked the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a time of prayer, fasting, and spiritual renewal. He highlighted the deep meaning of Eid, describing it as a celebration of sacrifice, discipline, and unity.

The Cardinal said that fasting is not only an act of devotion but also a way of inner purification that brings people closer to God. He noted that the values reflected during Ramadan and Eid go beyond religious boundaries and help build mutual respect and understanding among people of different faiths.

He also spoke about the present global situation, expressing concern over conflicts, social tensions, and the suffering of many people, especially the poor and vulnerable. In this context, he called on everyone to take inspiration from the spirit of Eid and respond with compassion and solidarity.

He encouraged people to work together to overcome division, hatred, and prejudice. He said that such efforts can help build a society based on brotherhood, peace, and goodwill.

The message concluded with prayers that Eid may bring joy, peace, and prosperity to families and communities. He also expressed hope that the festival would inspire people to work for harmony, justice, and unity in society.

The Supreme Court of India on March 24 upheld a ruling that a person who converts to Christianity cannot be considered a member of a Scheduled Caste. The court affirmed an earlier decision of the Andhra Pradesh High Court on the issue.

The judgment referred to the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950, which states that Scheduled Caste status is limited to those who follow Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism. The court said this rule is absolute and that conversion to any other religion results in the immediate loss of Scheduled Caste status.

The bench, including Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra and Justice Manmohan, clarified that a person cannot practice another religion and still claim benefits meant for Scheduled Castes. This includes protections, reservations, and legal rights under various laws.

The case involved a man who had converted to Christianity and was working as a pastor. He had filed a complaint under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, alleging assault and threats. The accused challenged the complaint, saying it was not valid since the man was no longer part of a Scheduled Caste.

Earlier, the High Court had ruled that caste does not apply within Christianity and dismissed the case. The Supreme Court agreed, noting that the man continued to practice Christianity and had not returned to his original religion.

The court also said that having a caste certificate does not automatically give legal protection if a person has changed religion, as such matters must follow legal rules.

The Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI), the largest men’s congregation of the Syro-Malabar Church, has elected Father Paul Achandy as its prior general for the second time. The election was held on March 19 during the 39th General Chapter at Chavara Hills in Kochi.

Father Achandy, 62, had earlier served as prior general for six years from 2014. His earlier term began in the same year when the congregation’s founder, Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara, was canonized. His return to leadership comes as the congregation prepares to celebrate its bicentenary in 2031.

After completing his previous term, he served as chancellor of Christ University and rector of Dharmaram College in Bengaluru. He also spent the past three years in Kenya.

His re-election is seen as a sign of trust and continuity, especially at a time when religious congregations face new challenges in mission and administration. Church members say such a return to leadership is uncommon, as most congregations follow fixed terms.

Born on May 19, 1963, Father Achandy was ordained a priest in 1992. He holds an MBA and a doctorate in management, with a focus on human resource development. He has served in key roles, including provincial in Thrissur and director of Amala Institute of Medical Sciences.

The CMI congregation, founded in 1831, has nearly 3,000 members working in education, healthcare, and social service in more than 30 countries.

Many have welcomed his re-election, describing him as a simple and visionary leader who guides with wisdom, faith, and commitment.