CBCI’s 37th General Body Meeting Opens Amid Rising Concerns Over Attacks on Christians and Anti-Conversion Laws

Verghese V Joseph –

Bengaluru: The 37th General Body Meeting of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) will commence on Wednesday at St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences here, carrying profound national significance amid escalating tensions faced by the Christian community. Convened against a backdrop of violence against churches, stringent anti-conversion laws, and recent Supreme Court directives, the one-day plenary has drawn sharp media focus.

In a pre-meeting media briefing, Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, CBCI President, underscored the Christian minority’s immense contributions to nation-building despite their small numbers. “The Constitution provides safeguards for minority rights and the freedom to practice our faith,” he asserted, urging adherence to its spirit. Countering narratives portraying the Church as foreign, Archbishop Thazhath emphasized Christianity’s 2,000-year presence in India. “It is inherently Indian, not alien,” he declared.

The Archbishop voiced deep alarm over hostility and attacks on Christians nationwide, often masked as enforcement of anti-conversion laws. He revealed personally meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to apprise him of these anxieties. Joining him at the media briefing were Archbishop Anil J.T. Couto (CBCI Secretary General), Bishop Joseph Mar Thomas (Vice-President II), Deputy Secretary General Fr. Mathew Koyickal, and PRO Fr. Robinson Rodrigues.

The assembly unfolds amid critical developments, including the Supreme Court’s recent directives on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging anti-conversion laws. Issued to the Centre and 12 states, these orders spotlight the laws’ implementation and their impact on religious freedoms.

Delegates will deliberate on a disturbing surge in attacks on churches and Christian institutions. Of particular concern are the “unprecedented and ugly” incidents of violence and intimidation during the Christmas season, which have rattled the national conscience. Reports from various regions detail vandalism, threats, and disruptions, prompting calls for accountability and protection.

This meeting’s outcomes could shape the Church’s response to pressing socio-political challenges, reinforcing its role in promoting constitutional values, interfaith harmony, and social justice.

Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIV issued a special message to the bishops, urging Latin Catholic leaders to foster unity and human fraternity. Delivered for the 37th Plenary Assembly of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI)—the Latin rite arm of the CBCI—the Pope called on the faithful to embody the Gospel of peace daily. “The Latin Church in India is called to remain a living sign of Christian love,” he stated. “Such love breaks down barriers, brings people closer, unites strangers, and reconciles enemies.” He entrusted the assembly to Mary, Mother of the Church, imparting his Apostolic Blessing for wisdom, strength, and communion.

In a parallel message, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelisation, reminded bishops of their duty to future generations. He stressed responding to youth needs, evangelisation challenges, and sustaining Christian witness in India’s interreligious landscape. “Your deliberations and resolutions will impact not just local Churches, but priests, religious, and lay faithful who look to you for guidance,” Cardinal Tagle noted.

The plenary opened with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at the Nursing College Auditorium, presided over by Most Rev. Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal. The inaugural session followed, invoking the Holy Spirit through the traditional hymn Veni Creator Spiritus. Dignitaries lit the traditional Indian lamp, symbolizing enlightenment and new beginnings.

His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, CCBI President and Archbishop of Goa and Daman, chaired the proceedings, inaugurated by Archbishop Girelli. Archbishop Peter Machado, CCBI Vice-President and Archbishop of Bangalore, extended a warm welcome. Archbishop Vincent Aind, CCBI Secretary General and Archbishop of Ranchi, presented the annual report.

The session formally welcomed 18 newly appointed bishops from the past year and observed a minute’s silence for departed members. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, CCBI Deputy Secretary General, proposed the vote of thanks, with closing prayers led by His Eminence Anthony Cardinal Poola, Archbishop of Hyderabad.