The debate between Christian groups on the one hand and Buddhist and Hindu groups on the other over religious freedom and proselytization continues in Sri Lanka. According to a May 13 report in Christian Today, one of two bills that would limit Christian conversionary efforts was presented last week for a second reading in Parliament and then referred to a Standing Committee, even though part of the bill has been held unconstitutional by the Sri Lanka Supreme Court. The bill would prohibit conversions obtained by force or fraud and would require those who convert to notify local authorities.
Also it is reported today by ADNKronos International that a Special Rapporteur for the United Nations Human Rights Commission has said that Sri Lanka is not punishing acts of anti-religious violence, such as the burning of churches. She worries that this could lead to religious intolerance. She has also heard charges that faith-based organizations bringing aid to last year's Tsunami victims have attempted to play on their vulnerabilities.
