1 TRANSLATION OF THE PROCEEDINGS AND ... - APFA News

people have enjoyed peace and happiness for many years because there has
been no religious conflict and strife in our country. In order to ensure that this
happy state of affairs is not undermined it is important to stop the
proselytization of Christianity in our country.
He pointed out that the responsibility for preventing Christianity from spreading
in the country lies squarely on the people living in the villages and all parts of
Bhutan. After all, it is the Bhutanese people who must ensure that the rich
religious values and practices which have existed through the ages are cherished
and promoted. It would also be very beneficial if members of the monastic
body initiated regular teaching programmes in the villages, particularly in the
more remote areas.
The Tsirang Chimi said that although the problem of proselytization had been
reported to the 73 rd Session of the National Assembly, it remained unresolved to
this day. Instead of declining, the number of people converted to Christianity
seemed to be increasing. The propagators of this foreign religion are using
money and other material inducements to convert the innocent and simple
people in the villages. The proselytization of other religions will not only create
problems in the villages and Dzongkhags but throughout the entire country. In
fact, for a small country with a small population like Bhutan, it will even
threaten national security in the future.
He expressed deep concern that the Buddhist and Hindu religions which were
bequeathed by the illustrous forefathers would be undermined by the spreading
of the Christian faith which could, in the end, be the cause for destroying the
existing peace and harmony in the country. Therefore, the Assembly must
discuss this issue and come up with concrete strategies to stop the
proselytization of the Christian faith so that the peace and stability of the
country will not be affected but flourish for all time to come.
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