Wagner Calls on the Government of India to Protect the Religious Liberty of All Its Citizens

By Hon. William Wagner

Religious liberty is among the most fundamental of all human rights. It is not granted by government but arises from the inherent dignity of every person. Governments exist to secure these rights, not to restrict them. When state power is used to suppress religious expression or burden faith-based organizations, freedom itself is placed at risk. Recent reports regarding proposed amendments to India’s Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) raise serious concerns among religious freedom advocates around the world. If enacted, these measures could significantly increase governmental control over Christian ministries and charitable organizations and potentially place churches, schools, hospitals, and other religious institutions at risk of losing their property and resources.

India has long been admired as the world’s largest democracy and a nation whose constitution recognizes the importance of religious freedom. That commitment must remain steadfast. A healthy democracy protects the rights of all citizens, including those whose beliefs differ from the majority. Religious freedom is not a privilege reserved for favored groups; it is a universal right belonging equally to Hindus, Christians, Muslims, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, and every other faith community.

I respectfully call upon the Government of India to ensure that its laws and policies fully protect the free exercise of religion and the rights of faith-based organizations to worship, serve, educate, and minister without fear of governmental interference or discrimination. Such protections strengthen civil society, promote human flourishing, and contribute to national unity.

Throughout history, societies have flourished when they protected freedom of conscience and declined when they sought to control it. India has an opportunity to demonstrate global leadership by reaffirming its commitment to religious liberty for all.

The international community should continue to encourage and support that commitment. The freedom to believe, worship, and live according to one’s faith is a cornerstone of human dignity and a necessary foundation for a free and just society.