(July 19, 2011): Worried Christian leaders have gathered in Kathmandu to discuss
a draft revision of the criminal code put before parliament that could again outlaw
the freedom to propagate Christianity. Around three dozen pastors and Christian activists
gathered on Sunday to discuss chapter nine of the proposed code called: “Crimes relating
to Religion.” The four hour gathering, which involved group discussions, was organized
by the “Value Based Development Society” led by local Christian lawyer, Kailash Sasankar.
The pastors fear most of the about 600 lawmakers in the constitutional assembly will
not know the full details of what had been tabled and could possibly approve of the
code without examining it thoroughly. They are worried about two paragraphs which
they say are directed at Christians and formulated to prevent evangelical activity
and conversions. Participants wondered if they would be able to preach inside churches
as freely if this law is ever implemented.