WRITTEN QUESTION E-1196/00 by William Newton Dunn (ELDR) to the Commission. Religious persecution in India.
Date: 2000-04-12
Institutions: European Parliament, Provisional data
Subjects: Christian, India, common foreign and security policy, freedom of religious beliefs

13.2.2001

EN

Official Journal of the European Communities

C 46 E/143

(2001/C 46 E/164)

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1196/00

by William Newton Dunn (ELDR) to the Commission

(12 April 2000)

Subject: Religious persecution in India

Attacks are being reported in several states of India on Christian communities in the shape of murder,
gang-rapes, beatings, threats, and destruction and desecration of churches. Meanwhile legislative initiatives
have been undertaken in a number of Indian states which seek to restrict religious freedom. In Orissa state,
for example, the state government passed an order at the end of 1999 prohibiting conversion without the
prior permission of the local police and the district magistrate. In Gujurat state, a freedom of religion bill
was introduced last year which established stiff penalties for the crime of converting individuals from one
religion to another. Although the bill was shelved this February, it is thought likely that attempts might be
made to revive it at a later date. Christians there believe that the bill is open to subjective interpretation
and may be used to halt their humanitarian efforts amongst the poor as well as curtailing any public
expression of their faith.

In the light of these events, does the Commission intend to address the question of religious tolerance and
freedom at the upcoming EU-India summit?

Answer given by Mr Patten on behalf of the Commission

(16 May 2000)

The Commission shares the concern expressed by the Honourable Member and would like to emphasise
that the Commission Delegation in New Delhi continues to monitor closely and report on the situation
regarding the situation of religious minorities in India, including the Christian community. It does so in
close consultation with the Community missions in New Delhi.

Ever since the surge in 1998 in the number of attacks on Christian families and facilities, ambassadors
have consistently expressed their concern in this regard to the Indian government.

The Government of India has since set up a National Commission for Minorities. This is charged in
particular with the protection of religious minorities in India, and following-up complaints received.
Although the National Commission for Minorities has no judicial powers, it is hoped that it will continue
to exert a restraining influence on extremist groups and thus contribute to upholding the principle of
secular government and free religious practice enshrined in the Indian constitution.

Regarding the reported legislative initiatives by a number of Indian states, the Commission will request its
delegation in New Delhi to work closely with its colleagues from Community sister missions, with a view
to analysing the factual background and implications of any discriminatory legislative measures taken that
may affect the freedom of faith of Christian and other religious groups in India. Based on their findings the
Commission will consult its partners and decide on the extent, form and appropriate forum of possible
representation to be made to the Indian authorities.

(2001/C 46 E/165)

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1203/00

by Bart Staes (Verts/ALE) to the Council

(13 April 2000)

Subject: Use of German shell bodies in a chemical attack carried out by the Turkish army

In reply to Written Question E-2386/99 (1),
Honourable Member have not been brought to the attention of the Council(cid:146).

the Council says that

(cid:145)the sources referred to by the