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

seems that proselytization is taking place in the country through materialistic
inducements as if religion is a tradeable item to be bought and sold.
As Buddhists imbued with the sense of tolerance that is in keeping with the
values of the Dharma most Bhtuanese tend to show respect and faith in anything
that is of a spiritual nature. If due care and attention is not exercised on the
matter it may be possible for the parties with malafide objectives to disturb the
minds of the Bhutanese people. Although the resolutions of the past sessions of
the National Assembly on proselytization are adequate, it is an issue that needs
to be addressed by the Government as well as the religious authourities in the
country. The religious bodies in the country must give careful consideration to
the matter and promote greater undersanding of the Dharma among the people
so that they will not become susceptible to proselytization.
Summing up the debate, the Speaker noted that the people of Chhukha
Dzongkhag had raised the issue of increasing proselytization of Christainity out
of concern that it would undermine the existing religions and the culture and
tradtions of the country.The Assembly had deliberated on the issue at length
and, in the course of the debate, the Home Minister had informed the house that
the Home Ministry had spoken to three Bhutanese nationals who had been
propagating the Christian faith and given them copies of the National Assembly
resolution on the issue of proselytization which were explained very clearly to
them. The Home Minister had also informed the house about the false
allegations made against the Royal Government regarding this issue in the
international media. The Dorji Lopen of the Central Monk Body had informed
the house that according to the teachings of the Buddha Dharma other religions
should not be critisized or condemned and that people should follow or change
religions according to their own free will. However, the Dratshang and the
religious institute are ready to start special programmes to promote greater
understanding and appreciation of the Dharma if directed to do so by the
National Assembly. The Speaker further noted a need for the Lhengyel
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