GBC Meetings: Upadate

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>From www.iskcon.com

 

Latest reports from GBC meetings:

GBC response to reform proposals

 

'A big mountain was churned and it produced a mouse' according to

one old hand. Others felt it was as much as could be expected

considering the vast array of reforms proposed.

 

Early reports indicate that proposals calling for wide ranging

reforms of ISKCON have met with a conservative response. Various

aspects of the proposals were examined, a number of which were

put forward for further action.

 

None of the fundamental changes called for in Srirama Dasa's

(click here for more details) and Ravindra Svarupa Dasa's (click

here for more details) proposals, reportedly the most

scrutinised, seem to have emerged as resolutions. Sannyasis will

remain on the GBC and no substantial reform of ISKCON's

management structure appears imminent.

 

Reports from Mayapur indicate that the main moves are:

 

* A resolution that GBC membership should be open to any

qualified devotee. As well as further opening GBC membership to

women and householders (both groups were already permitted on the

GBC), this resolution seems to do double duty as a rebuttal of

the three proposals asking that sannyasis no longer serve on the

GBC.

 

* A focus on annual assessment led by this year's Chairman, Ramai

Swami; Vice-chairman, Ravindra Svarupa Dasa; Sivarama Swami, and

Anuttama Dasa. This committee will examine various methods of

assessment, Western and Vedic, as well as possible training

systems. It is not yet clear whether this committee's findings

will lead directly to the institution of assessment and education

systems or if they will simply form the basis for proposals at

next year's meetings.

 

* A widening of the powers of GBC Deputies to include zonal

management and formulation of legislation. This is in order to

allow the GBC to concentrate more on global issues and less on

detailed proposals.

 

* The GBC also considered the concept of a 'Brahminical Advisory

Council'. A committee has been nominated to study this concept

and to make a proposal at next year's meetings.

 

It is not yet clear as to whether these resolutions are meant as

a springboard for wider reform or if they are intended as the sum

and substance of the GBC's response to calls for reform.

 

This year's main office holders are,

GBC Chairman: Ramai Swami

Vice-chairman: Ravindra Svarupa Dasa

Secretary: Giridhari Swami