On 14 October 2011 the Chairman of Maw Wan Ward in Phakant Township, Kachin State sent a letter to local churches, titled “Concerning Christians conducting cultural training”. The letter refers to an order by the General Township Administration Department requiring Christians in Phakant Township to submit a request at least fifteen days in advance for permission to conduct “short-term Bible study, Bible study, Sunday school, reading the Bible, fasting, prayer, Seasonal Bible study and Rosary of the Virgin Mary Prayer”. A request for permission must be accompanied by recommendations from other departments, and must be submitted to the Township Administration Office.
Churches in Burma are already required to obtain permission for any events other than Sunday services, but this new regulation imposes further severe restrictions.
Christian Solidarity Worldwide urge the Burmese authorities to withdraw this requirement, in Phakant Township and in any other parts of the country where it may have been issued, and to uphold freedom of religion for all the people of Burma. The NGO also urge the Burmese regime to invite the UN Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Religion or Belief to visit the country, and conduct an independent investigation.