The dissertation critically examines the ethical-theological issues implicated by the “Freedom of Religion Acts” promulgated in seven Indian States and proposes an appropriate Christian ethical response. 

Fr Almeida, who has been  appointed as the dean of Pilar Theological College, stated that the Acts not only infantilize an individual seeking conversion but consider him an object “who is converted” rather than a subject “who wants to change his faith”. 

 ‘The State cannot underestimate the capacity of every citizen’s intelligence and free will. He exercises franchise and has to make his life. In matters of religion, and especially when it comes to changing the faith, they make choices based very much on their conscience need’ Fr Almeida said. 

Fr Almeida, who was the former General Secretary of the Society of Pilar said that, this fundamental right is not conferred by the state but the state has to recognize and protect it. The conversion issue is not just a matter of freedom to change religious affiliation; it is to do with religious choices that individuals can and have the freedom to make in life.

 ‘However, the Freedom of Religion legislation’s attitude and ideology is aimed at impeding freedom of religion and freedom of worship and raises serious ethical questions on human dignity and fundamental human rights’ Fr Almeida said. 

 ‘Freedom of conscience is intrinsic to this dignity and vocation, and the right to religious freedom flows from this dignity and destiny of the human person’ stated Fr Almeida who was also the Rector of the All India Mission Seminary.

Fr Almeida pointed out the respect for freedom of conscience so utterly necessary for a search for truth has been deeply rooted in Indian tradition and ethos. It is encoded in the Hindu scriptures, sarva dharma sadbhav, i.e. ‘equal respect for all beliefs’ and the value of truth is even enshrined in India’s national motto: satyameva jayate or ‘Truth Triumphs’. 

 ‘This freedom of conscience is the civil right of an individual to immunity from all external coercion in his search for God, but the Freedom of Religion Acts are illegitimately paternalistic with the State standing in judgement of the motives that lead one to choose specific faiths as Christianity and Islam’ Fr Almeida stated. 

It rubbishes the freedom of conscience clause subsisting it with a government official who alone can permit change of belief. He recalled how the founding Fathers of the modern Indian Republic embraced religious pluralism and Article 25 of the Indian Constitution guarantees every citizen the right and the freedom to preach, practice and propagate his/her Religion, Fr Almeida stated. 

Fr Almeida also pointed out that this is consistent with India’s obligations under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and it’s enforcing convention, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

 Awarding the doctoral degree, the President, Prof. Alberto De Mingo Kaminouchi, C.Ss.R stated that the work will be of great benefit especially for India but also for religious liberty all over. 

The Dean, Prof. Martin McKeever, C.Ss.R. found the study of high significance and standard, while Prof. Andrzej S. Wodka, C.Ss.R congratulated Fr. Norman for his hard work, tremendous passion with the subject and the persuasive arguments throughout his work.  END.

 

Fr Feroz Fernandes 

9822136720