Christians protest move to control property in MP

(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.