Delhi police denied permission for the Palm Sunday procession, known as the "Way of the Cross," citing security concerns. The event was restricted to the Sacred Heart Cathedral premises, a decision accepted by the parish priest, Father Francis Swaminathan. This restriction has sparked criticism, with some questioning the equal upholding of religious freedom, especially given the increased reports of harassment against religious minorities in India since 2014. The Catholic Association of the Archdiocese of Delhi expressed shock, highlighting that other groups are routinely granted permissions for similar events. The denial has raised concerns about potential bias and the erosion of religious freedom, urging authorities to ensure justice and equality.
11 days ago
Delhi police denied permission for the annual Palm Sunday "Way of the Cross" procession, scheduled to proceed from St. Mary's Church to Sacred Heart Cathedral 1. The stated reason for the denial was security concerns 1. Due to the ban, the procession was held within the Sacred Heart Cathedral's premises 1.
Father Francis Swaminathan, the parish priest, stated that he accepted the police's decision, noting that similar denials have occurred in the past 1. The Catholic Association of the Archdiocese of Delhi (CAAD) expressed "deep shock and anguish" over the decision 1. The CAAD questioned the justification, especially given that other groups are routinely granted permission for processions 1. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called the move unconstitutional 1. Senior Congress leader KC Venugopal criticized the BJP for denying permission for the procession 1.
The CAAD questioned whether the constitutional right to religious freedom was being equally upheld for Christians 1. They emphasized the peaceful and law-abiding nature of the Christian community in Delhi 1. Since 2014, with the rise of the BJP, religious minorities in India have reported increased harassment 1. Incidents of harassment against Christians, including detentions and vandalism of places of worship, have been reported 1.
The Catholic Church firmly upholds religious freedom as a fundamental human right grounded in the dignity of the human person . This right is not based on subjective preferences but on the very nature of the human being, endowed with reason and free will, and therefore responsible for seeking the truth, especially religious truth .
The Second Vatican Council's Declaration Dignitatis Humanae is a cornerstone of the Church's teaching on religious freedom . It asserts that every person has the right to immunity from coercion by individuals, social groups, or any human power, preventing them from acting against their beliefs, whether privately or publicly, alone or in association with others, within due limits . This right stems from the dignity of the human person as understood through both reason and divine revelation .
Religious freedom must be recognized in constitutional law as a civil right . Society and the State should not force individuals to act against their conscience or prevent them from acting in accordance with it . The State should ensure that the rights of all individuals and communities are equally guaranteed, while safeguarding public order .
The exercise of religious freedom is not a license to adhere to error, nor is it an implicit right to error . The moral principle of personal and social responsibility should be observed, with respect for the rights of others and duties toward the common welfare . Society has the right to defend itself against abuses committed under the pretext of religious freedom, and the government has a special duty to provide this protection, acting according to juridical norms in conformity with the objective moral order .
The Church claims for herself the freedom to fulfill her divine mission . This includes the freedom to preach the Gospel, govern herself according to her own norms, and promote institutions in which members can live according to their religious principles . The Church also asserts the right of her faithful to live in accordance with their consciences without hindrance .
Despite the Church's clear teaching, religious freedom faces challenges in various parts of the world . These include legal systems that fail to adequately protect religious freedom, as well as persecution and discrimination against religious minorities . The Church calls on states to recognize and protect religious freedom as an intrinsic human right and a sign of a healthy democracy .
In summary, the Catholic Church views religious freedom as an essential right rooted in human dignity, which must be protected by society and the State within just limits, allowing individuals and communities to seek and live according to the truth.