The call to introduce anti-conversion legislation in Sri Lanka has been around for many years, particularly in the face of rapidly growing evangelical Christianity in regions of this predominantly Buddhist country. Until now, there has been no action from the federal government. However, according to a report received from the Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka, legislation modeled after a new anti-conversion law in Tamil Nadu, India is set to be introduced in Sri Lanka's parliament. The proposal has the support of Buddhist, Hindu, and some Catholic groups.
In November 2002, Sri Lanka's Hindu Cultural Affairs Minister, Mr. Maheshwaran, returned from Tamil Nadu promising to introduce legislation similar to that in Tamil Nadu. Since the government's official response has been silence, it is expected that the proposal will be introduced as a private member's bill. It is feared that the introduction of such a bill may be supported by many in the parliament.
Pray that this proposed legislation will not be introduced. Pray for protection for Christians facing persecution, particularly from militant Buddhist groups in the country. Pray especially for church planters working in Buddhist areas of Sri Lanka, that God would bless their ministry in the face of much opposition.
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