India must protect freedom, dignity, says Indian Catholic Church head

New Delhi (Indian Catholic News) — The head of the Indian Catholic bishops’ conference urged India to protect religious freedom, uphold human dignity and ensure justice for all citizens as it celebrates Independence Day.

In an Independence Day message, Cardinal Anthony Poola of Hyderabad, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, said freedom must be “respected, protected and preserved for every citizen.”

“India is a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic,” he said, stressing that the question is not “Which religion is greater?” or “Which religion should prevail?”

“Our concern must be much greater: How can we uphold the dignity of every human person and build a nation where no one is left behind?” he said.

“Our freedom must translate into humanity, justice, equality and the upliftment of the poor, the marginalized and the downtrodden.”

India is celebrating Independence Day on Aug. 15, marking 79 years since it gained freedom from British rule in 1947.

Cardinal raises concerns over Christians, FCRA bill

Cardinal Poola expressed “deep concern” over incidents affecting Christians in different parts of India, citing “violence, atrocities, intimidation and mob lynching.”

“Every citizen has the right to live, worship and serve without fear,” he said, appealing to the government and authorities to “protect this constitutional freedom and ensure justice wherever it is violated.”

He also highlighted the Christian community’s service through “education, healthcare, social service and humanitarian assistance,” particularly for poor and vulnerable people.

Cardinal Poola appealed to the government to repeal the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, saying its provisions “could seriously hinder genuine charitable institutions from continuing this humanitarian service to the people of India.”

The FCRA regulates foreign funding of NGOs and religious institutions. Amendments proposed in 2026 have drawn concern from church bodies and civil society groups, who argue that restrictions could hinder charitable work.

After much protests from Opposition parties and Christian churches, the Government of India has referred the bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee,

Cardinal Poola called for an India “where freedom is respected, diversity is celebrated, justice is upheld, and every human being is treated with dignity.”

“May God bless India. May God bless every citizen. Jai Hind!” he added.

Read the full message.