Kollam (Kerala): The Union Government is reportedly taking steps to establish a National Christian Welfare Board. This move is part of an initiative to grant "micro-minority" status to the Christian community.
The proposed Board is intended to be a quasi-judicial body featuring representatives from state governments. Sources indicate that an NGO with links to the Sangh Parivar has already been gathering information from various Christian denominations, which will be submitted to the government as a formal report.
Objectives of proposed Board
The primary aim is to ensure the fundamental rights of Christians who face infringements due to traditional customs. Key areas of focus include
- Ensuring rights related to marriage and funerals.
- Securing the right of children from interfaith marriages to choose their religion.
- Guaranteeing the right to worship without conditions.
It is expected that the formation of the Welfare Board will proceed following amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).
Asset management and FCRA connection
Under the FCRA amendments, there are discussions regarding placing confiscated assets under the jurisdiction of the Welfare Board. Current provisions allow the government to take over buildings and assets constructed using foreign funds if an organisation's FCRA licence is cancelled or not renewed.
While it has been stated that a special authority will be appointed to manage and maintain such properties, indications suggest that this authority will be the newly formed Welfare Board.
Rising concerns and criticism
The proposal has already drawn sharp criticism, with many arguing that the Board will strip Christian churches and the clergy of their existing rights. Christian groups have begun protesting the formation of the Board, following their existing grievances over FCRA amendments.
'A move to usurp authority'
"If the FCRA amendment is a storm, the Christian Welfare Board will turn into a tsunami. The framework of the Christian Church is based on Canon Law. The formation of this Board is a move by certain elements to usurp the powers and rights held by the Church under that law," said Jose K Mani, chairman of Kerala Congress (M).