We are not trusted despite doing so much: Archbishop

It is a big blow to us. Even gatherings outside the Church premises, even at someone’s house, are being seen as suspect.

Why is the anti-conversion bill seen as a threat?

The bill is a big blow to us. The Christian community is happy with the government and we have faith in the legislators, including those from the BJP, some of whom are stalwarts. However, the proposed bill seems to tell us that we are not trusted despite all that we have done. We have sacrificed ourselves to help society, our own community complains that we don’t do enough for them but help everyone else. Why then are we being criminalised? Karnataka is a progressive state, we are trying to convince our legislators that the bill will mean a step back for us.

What is the Church’s view of unlawful conversion?

Conversion by fear, fraud and force are considered a mortal sin. Cheating people, by promising them material gains if they convert, is an even bigger sin. If there is forced conversion taking place, we request the government to take action. The Indian Penal Code already enables us to act against this. There is no need to bring in another law.

What will happen to the numerous schools, colleges, hospitals and other charitable organisations run by Missionaries?

We will have to stop the work that we’re doing. Our orphanages and old age homes can now only help Christians, reaching out to other religious groups is simply too much of a risk. Dalits will suffer too. The Christian community has always extended support towards this community but to do charity for them now is downright dangerous. We can easily be accused of trying to convert them. However, I found solace at the protest today - there were other minority groups standing in solidarity with us, having now realised that the bill will affect them too.

The proposed bill is applicable across religions. Why do you feel the Christian community will be affected more than others?

Since we reach out to society in many ways, we can become a target through any one of them. Take schools, for instance - there are lakhs of students in Catholic schools. There will be a statue somewhere, or a Cross. Anyone walking into the school, perhaps someone with a grudge, can accuse us of trying to convert people. We can’t even distribute cakes for Christmas - only the Chrstian students will be able to take it! People meeting for an evening prayer, or to sing Christmas carols in someone’s house will be suspect. Everything will have to be explained and justified.

Do you worry that an anti-conversion law will enable vigilantes?

The Chief Minister assured us that it will not affect the Christian community but then, there have been so many acts of violence against us even without a law like this in place. Imagine what the law will enable. It has been brought to my notice that 10 people will be appointed in every village to make sure that there is no unlawful conversion. I don’t mind the government taking action, or the police. But how can any Tom, Dick and Harry decide it is their responsibility to safeguard a religion?

What is the Archdiocese’s plan if the bill is pushed through?

There is nothing we can do except appeal to the government. I can meet with other leaders from my community and explore the possibility of legal redressal. I have tried my best at every level and it looks like my efforts have failed. If the government says we cannot do something, then we will stop doing it. We believe that when God closes one door, he will open up another. We will find a way to progress through the challenges. We will also pray for the government, for peace in Karnataka.