Members allege corruption in CSI People’s Synod

According to People’s Synod general secretary Rev, Jacob Belly “the name of the church has been spoilt by corruption in high places which over the years, has permeated to the lower levels of the clergy.”

Sources revealed that bribing was common for ensuring teachers postings in minority run institutions. This malaise was prevalent in all dioceses, they added. 

Various attempts to control corruption including addressing officialdom – CSI is registered under the Companies Act – failed to control corruption. It may be recalled that on various occasions, elections to the various diocesan councils were hard fought affairs with money playing a crucial role in ensuring victory. Speakers highlighted bishops sticking to their posts past 65 years and of corrupt practices in Vellore, Madurai and Kanyakumari dioceses. As the CSI does not have a system of checks and balances for remedial action “people who had the welfare of CSI at heart were left with no other alternative than going public” Belly said. 

“The People’s Synod will hand over a petition to the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO)” Rev. Belly concluded.