Following the complaint raised by the Legal Rights Protection Forum (LPRF) on 29 April 2024, to the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the Tamilnadu Bishops’ Council and Archbishop of Mylapore – Madras Archdiocese, George Antonysamy, for allegedly propagating written propaganda through a community magazine to sway voters in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the ECI has acknowledged the complaint. Subsequently, the ECI has instructed the Chennai District Election Officer to address the issue of influencing voters along communal lines.
The LPRF has shared a copy of official correspondence on its X handle, stating that on 3 May 2024, the Under Secretary to the Government sent a letter to the District Election Officer in Chennai. The subject of the correspondence pertains to a “Complaint against Tamil Nadu Bishop’s Council for influencing votes on religious grounds.”
The complaint alleges that the Tamil Nadu Bishop’s Council exerted influence on voting behavior based on religious affiliations. It is identified by the reference number “F.No.464/TN- HP/2024/SS-I/Vol-VII, dated 30.04.2024.”
#Update:
Following our complaint, Election Commission of India directed Chennai District Election Officer to take action in the matter of influencing voters on communal lines by Tamil Nadu Bishops' Council and Archbishop of Mylapore – Madras Archdiocese, Mr George Antonysamy https://t.co/oH2Qou0Mab pic.twitter.com/6xlqATE6Gf— Legal Rights Protection Forum (@lawinforce) May 4, 2024
Context
A formal complaint has been lodged against Archbishop George Antonysamy of the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore, alleging his attempt to influence voters using religious sentiments in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The complaint specifically points out an editorial published by Antonysamy in ‘The New Leader” magazine, affiliated with the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore, Tamil Nadu.
The Editorial
The editorial titled “General Election 2024: Statement from Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council” in the recent edition of The New Leader magazine raises significant concerns. It is accused of attempting to sway voter opinion by invoking religious sentiments and employing fear-mongering tactics.
In the editorial, Antonysamy openly criticizes India’s elected central government and its citizens. He suggests that there is an attempt to construct India as a mono-cultural nation, denying its diversity. He accuses the current Union Government of imposing the ideology of one religion, one language, and one culture, along with fascist ideologies.
Antonysamy further stirs disharmony by alleging that Christians and Muslims are branded as anti-nationals and their fundamental rights are under attack. He criticizes the government for attempting to impose communal laws and curtail religious freedom. He also expresses concerns about various issues including media control, neglect of southern states, attacks on state rights, and alleged government control over investigative bodies and courts. The editorial concludes with a call to action urging Christians to vote to protect religious faith and human rights, rejecting sectarian parties, and aligning with non-religious, democratic forces.
The editorial’s tone and content suggest a possible alignment with a political party, specifically the DMK, based on its language and echoed claims. There are concerns about its attempt to influence voters based on religious lines, violating the democratic process. Several organizations affiliated with the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore are highlighted, indicating the need for thorough investigation into potential violations of FEMA, PMLA, and FCRA regulations. There are allegations of misuse of FCRA funds for purposes contrary to donor intentions, including political agendas.
Various organizations, including the Legal Rights Protection Forum (LRPF), have raised the issue with the Election Commission of India, urging decisive action against the Bishop’s Council and the Archdiocese of Mylapore-Madras. There are demands for investigation and accountability for violating laws and misusing funds.
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.