(January 22, 2009) Madhya Pradesh State Minority Commission has decided to ask for
a new law that would establish a state-controlled structure to administer and manage
Church properties. The commission after its monthly meeting on January15 issued a
statement saying the new law and structure could be modelled after Wakhf Board Act
that administers common Muslim properties in the state. That act brings all the property
owned by the Muslims minority, either through gift or government allotment, under
state government for its control and use. Archbishop Leo Cornelio of Bhopal protested
the move saying the commission is unaware of the functioning of Christian organizations.
Church properties are managed by trusts or societies registered under government laws
and follow strict audits of accounts as per law, he said. “It is clear that the Minority
Commission is working against the interest of the Christian Minority.” The Commission,
which is to protect the interest of minorities, “has lost its moral authority to continue
in office," the archbishop said. Madhya Pradesh Christian council Legal Cell President
James Anthony said it would move court if the government follows up the commission’s
suggestions. He said that the constitution of the State Minority Commission Act 1996
states that if the chairman or member works against the interest of the community
or abuse the office, they can be removed from the office. The catholic community
would urge the chief minister to reject the proposals of the commission members.