National Priests Religious Forum of Lawyers Commits to Uphold Constitutional Values

Jaipur, Decebember 2, 2025 — Over one hundred priest-lawyers, religious advocates, legal activists and lay professionals from across India gathered in Jaipur for the 7th National Convention of the National Forum of Lawyers (Priests & Religious), reaffirming their commitment to defend constitutional values, protect minority rights and strengthen legal support for the marginalised through a mission rooted in justice and Gospel-inspired service.

The three-day gathering brought together bishops, retired judges, legal experts and social leaders for keynote addresses, practical training and discussions on emerging legal challenges faced by Christian communities in the country. Archbishop Raphy Manjaly called for a united effort to challenge unjust laws and respond effectively to pressures on minority institutions, while Justice Sunil Ambwani (Retd.) highlighted the importance of upholding constitutional morality, judicial independence (Jamboree and procedural fairness).

Sessions offered guidance on the POSH Act, the strategic use of Public Interest Litigation, and the empowerment potential of the Right to Information Act. Delegates also reflected on safeguarding legal rights in the face of discrimination, and on strengthening professional collaboration to serve the vulnerable more effectively.

The convention elected a new National Executive to lead the Forum in the coming term, with Sr. Julie George SSpS as President, Fr. Benjamin D’Souza as Vice President, Sr. Sheeba Paul SHSP as Secretary and Sr. Helen Tresa CHF as Treasurer. In addition, Fr. Sebastian and Sr. Jyoti Mary will serve as Joint Treasurer and Joint Secretary respectively, reflecting a renewed focus on diverse leadership and shared responsibility.

Testimonies from experienced legal ministers, including Fr. P. D. Mathew SJ and Fr. K. M. Joseph SJ, underlined the longstanding role of Christian legal activism in defending the poor, addressing bonded labour and resisting unjust legal narratives. Decisions for the next phase of work included strengthening the Forum’s presence in northern states, establishing Rapid Response and Media Committees, and completing state-level elections by 20 February 2026. Punjab was announced as the venue for the next National Convention.

The meet concluded with a renewed pledge to uphold the Indian Constitution while drawing strength from prayer and fellowship, encouraging Christian legal professionals to remain “legal missionaries” who serve the nation with competence, compassion and unwavering commitment to justice.

By Sr. Helen Tresa CHF