Maharashtra Catholic Bishops Voice Strong Opposition to Freedom of Religion Bill
The Catholic bishops of Maharashtra, affiliated with the Western Region Bishops' Council, have issued a powerful statement expressing "deep disappointment and strong protest" against the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026. This legislation was recently passed by both Houses of the state legislature, sparking significant controversy and concern among religious communities.
Bishops Demand Immediate Withdrawal or Substantial Revision
In their formal statement, the bishops have demanded the "withdrawal or substantial revision" of the bill, arguing that it fundamentally undermines the constitutional right to religious freedom. They emphasized that religious freedom is not a concession granted by the State but a fundamental right protected under the Indian Constitution.
The statement reads: "...this [bill] undermines the very right it claims to protect, that is, the freedom to choose and profess one's religion, as guaranteed under the Constitution. We strongly oppose [it] in its current form and call for its immediate withdrawal or substantial revision."
Concerns Over Constitutional Rights and Religious Liberty
The bishops highlighted that the bill, in its present form, poses a serious threat to the democratic principles of religious choice and expression. They stressed that any legislation affecting religious freedom must align with constitutional guarantees and respect the diverse fabric of Indian society.
Their protest centers on the belief that the bill could potentially restrict individuals' ability to freely practice and propagate their faith, thereby violating core constitutional provisions. The bishops' stance reflects broader anxieties within minority communities about the implications of such laws on religious harmony and personal liberties.
Signatories of the Statement
The statement was signed by a prominent group of Catholic leaders from across Maharashtra, including:
- Elias Gonsalves, Archbishop of Nagpur
- John Rodrigues, Archbishop of Bombay
- Sebastian, Archeparchy of Kalyan
- Thomas D'sousa, Bishop of Vasai
- Lancy Pinto, Bishop of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
- Simon Almeida, Bishop of Pune
- Ephrem Nariculam, Eparchy of Chanda
- Malcolm Sequeira, Bishop of Amravati
- Matthews Mar Pochomio, Eparchy of Khadki
- Agnelo Pinheiro of Sindhudurg Diocese
- Auxiliary Bishops Savio Fernandes, Stephen Fernandes, and Allwyn D'souza of Mumbai
This collective action underscores the unified concern among Catholic clergy regarding the bill's potential impact on religious freedom in Maharashtra. The bishops' call for revision or withdrawal is expected to influence ongoing debates about the legislation's implementation and future amendments.
