Christians Discuss New Criminal Code

(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.