Churches in Mumbai and Thane Deny Asking Worshippers for Consent Forms

Mainstream Christian denominations across Mumbai and Thane have refuted reports that churches are requiring worshippers to sign declarations confirming voluntary attendance ahead of the implementation of a new anti-conversion law on August 28.

Major denominations, including the Roman Catholic Church, the Church of North India (CNI), and the Methodist Church, stated that they have not asked their members to submit any such written undertakings.

Melwyn Fernandes, secretary of the Association of Concerned Catholics, said that Mumbai and Thane have more than 100 Roman Catholic churches, and none of them have asked worshippers to sign declarations.

Cyril Dara, secretary of the Christian Reform United People Association, confirmed that neither the CNI nor the Methodist Church is requesting signatures from churchgoers. Dara noted that members are registered and free to worship where they choose, adding that church groups intend to oppose the legislation through legal means rather than through declaration papers.

The reports emerged ahead of the anti-conversion law coming into effect on August 28. While Christian organisations have voiced apprehension that the law's definition of "allurement" could subject charitable, educational, and religious activities to police scrutiny, the government maintains the legislation is strictly aimed at forced and fraudulent conversions.

Dolphy D’Souza, spokesperson for the Bombay Catholic Sabha, explained that while mainstream churches do not need letters for regular worshippers, some churches outside mainstream denominations have begun using consent letters for visitors whose identities are not known.

D’Souza also noted that some churches have been advised to install CCTV cameras to preserve evidence and identify individuals in the event of mob attacks or violence.