QUESTION: What is your response to the very idea of the BJP to have a survey of Christian missionaries and conversions in Karnataka?

ANSWER: The government of Karnataka has suspend-ed for the time taking a survey of Christian churches and its personnel. The survey is meant to harass those who are part of the Christian community and create anxiety among them. The very process violates the fundamental rights given to individuals in the constitution of India. This step if implemented will create a situation whereby some persons or groups can criminalize those who have embraced Christianity. Much on the ground level there is a beautiful cooperation and harmony between various religions. But there are some extreme fundamentalist groups who would like to use these kinds of steps to frighten people, demoralize and shame them.  How can a ruling government create a situation for isolation and marginalisation of certain communities? I am worried but not discouraged, I am ashamed but not given up, and above all I strongly believe in the democratic fabric of my country- India. It will not fail us.

Bishop Sebastian Adayanthrath
Mandya