Media Release

Udupi, Nov 12: Urging the Karnataka government to repeal the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022 (anti-conversion law) and formulate a comprehensive policy to protect religious minorities and vulnerable communities against hate speech, communal provocation and violence, Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh submitted a memorandum to the chief minister through the deputy commissioner on Thursday, November 12.

The memorandum, submitted on behalf of Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh of the Udupi diocese, stated that the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022, has serious implications for the fundamental rights of religious minorities, their religious identity and freedom of expression of faith.

It expressed concern that the anti-conversion law could potentially criminalise the very existence of religious minorities and undermine the freedom of conscience guaranteed by the Constitution. The implementation and implications of the Act, particularly for the Christian community and other religious minorities, were said to impose restrictions on their right to freely express and practise their faith, beliefs and religious identity.

Referring to Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, the memorandum pointed out that every individual has the right to profess, practise and propagate religion. However, the broad restrictions and provisions of the existing Act raise serious questions about the limits of legislative authority and could create an atmosphere of fear of criminal prosecution in matters relating to religious beliefs and practices.

It stated that religious freedom would lose its true meaning if individuals and communities were forced to constantly defend the legitimacy of their religious beliefs. The state government was urged to demonstrate exemplary leadership by repealing the Act, upholding the constitutional principles of religious freedom, equality and human dignity, and setting an example for other states.

The Catholic Sabha also called upon the government to strengthen and effectively implement existing laws to prevent hate speech, communal incitement and crimes targeting religious minorities and other vulnerable communities.

The memorandum highlighted that religious communities cannot fully enjoy their right to religious freedom and live with dignity while facing continuous threats of hatred, harassment and violence. Speeches that promote discrimination, hatred or violence undermine peaceful coexistence and create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity in society.

It further stressed the need for timely investigations, effective prosecution and accountability of those responsible for hate speech and hate crimes. The government was urged to review and strengthen the existing legal framework, introduce necessary legislative amendments and ensure effective implementation without compromising the constitutional guarantee of freedom of speech and expression.

Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh president Melwin Aranha, secretary Juliet D’Souza, treasurer Garifield Urban Lewis, president-elect Louis D’Souza, former presidents Valerian Fernandes and Dr Gerald Pinto, and Sahabalve Samsthe’s Prof Phaniraj were present on the occasion.