Mumbai Churches Deny Forcing Declarations Amid Anti-Conversion Law

Mumbai's mainstream Christian denominations have denied reports that churches in the city are asking worshippers to sign declarations stating they attend services voluntarily.

The reports surfaced ahead of the anti-conversion law, scheduled to come into force on August 28. Church groups have expressed concern that the law's definition of 'allurement' could bring charitable and educational activities under police scrutiny.

Major denominations, including the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of North India, said they have not asked members to sign such undertakings. Cyril Dara, secretary of the Christian Reform United People Association, stated that the CNI and Methodist Church are not asking members to sign such documents.

Melwyn Fernandes, secretary of the Association of Concerned Catholics, said that none of the over 100 Roman Catholic churches in Mumbai and Thane have asked members to submit such declarations. However, some churches not part of mainstream denominations have started using 'consent letters'.

Dolphy D'Souza, spokesperson for the Bombay Catholic Sabha, said that these letters are used for individuals whose identities are not known, and that some churches have been advised to install CCTV cameras to protect their interests.

The government has maintained that the anti-conversion law is aimed only at forced and fraudulent conversions. Church groups plan to oppose the law through legal means.

The new law has sparked concern among church groups, who fear it could impact their charitable and educational activities. The law's implementation is scheduled for August 28.

The denial by mainstream Christian denominations comes as a response to reports of churches asking worshippers to sign declarations. The issue has sparked debate and concern among the Christian community in Mumbai.

The anti-conversion law is set to come into force soon, and church groups are preparing to oppose it through legal means. The law's impact on charitable and educational activities remains to be seen.

In conclusion, the denial by Mumbai churches of forcing declarations on worshippers comes amid concerns over the new anti-conversion law. The law's implementation is scheduled for August 28, and church groups are preparing to oppose it through legal means.