Jain Sangh's Opposition to Religious Trust Bill 1960

Summary

The Akhil Bharatvarshiya Jain Sanskriti Rakshan Sabha submits a memorandum opposing the Religious Trust Bill 1960, arguing it undermines religious freedom and proper trust management. They highlight that the bill was introduced without consulting religious institutions, trustees, or Dharmagurus, violating democratic principles. The Sabha claims existing state-level trust acts have caused significant harm to religious institutions, citing unnecessary government interference, reduced trust incomes, and costly legal battles. They argue the bill forces trustees to comply with government rules rather than religious tenets, contradicting Jain principles prohibiting monetary compensation for religious services. The Sabha insists on canceling the bill and existing state acts, suggesting government collaboration with Jain monks for ethical trust management. They warn that such laws erode moral values and religious sanctity, urging the committee to recommend dropping the bill and seeking public and religious input for better management schemes.