@1990: GBC RESOLUTIONS 1990

 

INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR KRISHNA CONSCIOUSNESS

  Founder-Acarya His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada

 

             RESOLUTIONS OF THE GOVERNING BODY COMMISSION

Annual General Meeting - February 18-March 4, 1990 - Mayapur, India

 

 

 1.{90} Election of Officers- The GBC Executive Officers for 1990-91  are:

          Chairman - Siva Ram Swami

          Vice Chairman - Bhakti Caru Swami

          Secretary - Harikesa Swami

 

 2.{90} That the resignation of Rupanuga Prabhu from the GBC Body be  accepted.

 

 3.{90}  [UNPUBLISHED]

 

 4.{90}  That the resignation of Agrani Swami from the GBC Body is  not accepted.

 

 5.{90} That the resignation of Hrdayananda Goswami from the GBC  Body is not accepted.

 

 6.{90}  That Loka Sakshi Prabhu be appointed as a full GBC Member.{90}

 

 7.{90}  That Tosan Krishna Prabhu be appointed as a full GBC Member.{90}

 

 8.{90}  That Kirtiraja Prabhu be continued as an Acting GBC Member  with full voting rights.{90}

 

 9.{90}  That Badrinarayana Prabhu be appointed as a full GBC Member.{90}

 

10.{90}  That Kavicandra Swami be appointed as a full GBC Member.{90}

 

11.{90}  (CORRESPONDENCE RESOLUTION EFFECTIVE JAN. 10, 1990) That,  according to Srila Prabhupada's expressed desire, all temples must offer at least a one-year Back to Godhead subscription to every newly enrolled life member, as part of the  benefits of their membership package.  The subscription fees  must be remitted immediately upon enrolling the member as  follows:  subscriptions for members in the UK should be  obtained through Bhaktivedanta Books Ltd in Watford; sub scriptions for members in Australasia should be obtained  through the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust in Sydney; subscrip tions for members in Singapore and Malaysia should be ob tained through BBT Malaysia; subscriptions for members  located elsewhere should be obtained directly from the Back  to Godhead offices in San Diego.  New members who are not  residing in primarily English-speaking areas shall be given  the option of receiving a one-year subscription to BTG.  BBT  officials shall have the option to excuse temples from this  requirement if they are confident that the members will  actually be receiving the magazines from the temple's own  stock.{90}

 

12.{90}  (CORRESPONDENCE RESOLUTION EFFECTIVE JAN. 10, 1990) That a  standing committee, called the ISKCON Board of Examinations  shall be formed.  This committee shall have power to review  and approved proposed examinations for the awarding of the  degrees Bhakti Sastri, Bhakti Vaibhava, Bhakti Vedanta, and  Bhakti Sarvabhauma.  The basis for review and approval shall  be the guidelines given by Srila Prabhupada for the awarding  of these degrees.  No ISKCON center may award these degrees  without seeking the approval of the ISKCON Board of Examinations.{90}

 

13.{90}  (CORRESPONDENCE RESOLUTION EFFECTIVE JAN. 10, 1990) That the  Bhakti Sastri examination prepared by Jagadisha Goswami  shall be submitted to the ISKCON Board of Examinations for  approval.  If it is not satisfactory, it can be sent to the  ISKCON Examinations Committee for needed improvements.{90}

 

14.{90}  (CORRESPONDENCE RESOLUTION EFFECTIVE JAN. 10, 1990) That  local GBC members shall report to the GBC Body through the  Corresponding Secretary if an ISKCON-approved initiating  guru normally residing or regularly preaching in his zone  has:

 

     1) taken re-initiation/shelter of a non-ISKCON guru or  institution;

     2) rejected ISKCON or Srila Prabhupada; or

     3) undergone a change of service, of asrama or of living  situation which the local GBC member feels threatens to  hamper the approved guru's ability to give guidance to or  set a proper standard of conduct for disciples.

 

        The GBC member's report shall, if possible, include a  written statement from the approved guru as to his inten tions in regard to his disciples and his devotional service.   If not possible, then it shall at least include a descrip tion of the approved guru's intentions as best they can be  discerned through the investigation of the GBC member.  The  report shall also contain any other information which would  be of value to the GBC Body in determining the guru's  status, as well as the recommendations of the local temple  presidents, zonal councils, etc.

 

       At the next Annual Meeting, the GBC Body shall consider  the recommendations (under disciplinary-related motions) and  take any necessary actions.  Guidance shall also be offered  to the guru's disciples, if necessary.{90}

 

15.{90}  (CORRESPONDENCE RESOLUTION EFFECTIVE JAN. 10, 1990) That any  ISKCON ministry, organization, individual, or project  (including those legally independent from ISKCON) receiving  funding from ISKCON or the BBT, including mandatory assess ments, taxes, and so forth, from temples and/or zones, be  required to provide financial reports clearly delineating  assets, liabilities, expenditures, and income.  Such reports ìare to be submitted to the GBC Corresponding Secretary at  least forty-five days prior to the beginning of the Annual  Meeting, and shall be distributed to all GBC members and  made available to other concerned ISKCON officials upon  request.  The Corresponding Secretary shall compile a list  of ISKCON ministries, organizations, individuals, or pro jects to whom this resolution applies, and annually notify  them of their report deadline at least 60 days in advance.   Anyone who is submitting a request for GBC/ISKCON funding  should, along with their appeal, include their budget and  previous financial reports for information.  This resolution  will not take effect until after the 1990 Annual Meeting.

 

16.{90}  (CORRESPONDENCE RESOLUTION EFFECTIVE JAN. 10, 1990) That the  GBC Body accepts Mukunda Goswami's resignation as the GBC  Supervisor for the International Life Membership Trust  (ILMT), effective Gour Purnima, 1990.  The UKLM Program is  directed to assume responsibility for the functioning of the  ILMT, ideally with Jalakara Prabhu's approval and coopera tion.  The UKLM Program directors are also requested to  report to the GBC at the 1990 Annual Meeting with their  recommendation as to a new GBC Supervisor for the ILMT, how  the ILMT will function, and what will be its composition.

 

17.{90}  That Virabahu Prabhu be approved as an Assistant GBC member.{90}

 

18.{90} That the GBC Body thanks Paramgacchit Swami for his fine  service, accepts his resignation, and encourages him to  continue with his enthusiastic preaching.{90}

 

 

20.{90}  That the GBC Body appoints a committee of Tamal Krishna  Goswami, Gour Govinda Swami, Bhakticaru Swami, and Jagadisa  Goswami to negotiate a land settlement for the Hyderabad  farm project between the Badrukas and the local ISKCON  management, represented by Gopal Krishna Goswami and  Jayapataka Swami.{90}

 

21.{90} That the GBC recognizes the importance of the Bhubanesvara  Project in Orissa, started by Srila Prabhupada in 1977, and  the need to finish the construction of the temple and guest  house. It hereby forms a committee, called the Bhubanesvara  Temple Committee, to organize the raising of funds in India  and worldwide for the completion of the Bhubanesvara temple.   All ISKCON temples, members, and congregations are encour aged to offer assistance to this committee.{90}

 

22.{90}  That the Bhubanesvar Temple Committee shall be Gour Govinda ìSwami, Jayapataka Swami, Hari Vilas, and Tosan Krishna das.{90}

 

23.{90}  That the GBC Body requests the Indian Continental Committee  to seriously take up the matter of how to raise funds for  the Bhubanesvara temple within India.{90}

 

24.{90}  That the GBC Body encourages the MVT to accept the need that  Srila Prabhupada's promise to provide matching funds for the  Bhubanesvara temple project be fulfilled.  They should also  seriously consider funding the money required to transfer  the approximately thirty acre land in Puri into the name of  ISKCON.{90}

 

25.{90}  That Agrani Maharaja should spend four months of the coming  year hearing and chanting in the dhams of Vrindaban and  Mayapur.{90}

 

26.{90}  [UNPUBLISHED]

 

27.{90} That Ravindra Swarup das shall continue as a member of the  GBC Judicial Committee for the completion of the Rahugana  das vs. ISKCON of the Bay Area case.{90}

 

28.{90}  That a subcommittee consisting of Tamal Krishna Goswami,  Bhakticaru Swami, and Jayadwaita Swami shall research Srila  Prabhupada's instructions on the constitution of the GBC  Body and define specific standards and procedures that the  GBC Body should use in the adding of members to the Body and  in the assignment of zones.{90}

 

29.{90}  [UNPUBLISHED]

 

30.{90}  That the following are approved as parameters for the next  stage of design for the Main Mayapur Temple:

 

a) Main Deities: Panca Tattva

b) Other Deities: Radha Madhava and the Eight Gopis

                  31 Members of the Guru Parampara

c) No other deities are approved for worship at this time.{90}

d) The main structure may be a 50 meter circumference dome  on a 20 meter high base, which, including kalash, is 230  feet high.{90}

e) It is allowable to put the deities in a separate struc ture, outside the main dome, which is shorter than the  dome itself.{90}

f) It is allowable to place Radha Krishna in a separate  structure with the planetarium above them.{90}

g) The entire temple must have capacity to hold 10,000 per sons sitting at one time.{90}

h) In the exhibit of Devi Dham it is acceptable to worship a  deity of Devi as a Vaisnava, in the exhibit of Mahesa  Dham it is acceptable to worship a deity of Mahesa as a  Vaisnava, and in the exhibit of Hari Dham it is accepta ble to worship Visnu murtis.{90}

i) It is acceptable to have theme parks demonstrating the ìfour dhams integrated as part of the temple.{90}

j) It is acceptable that the design can be for phased con struction, whereby the worship of Panca Tattva may begin  at a certain point before the construction is completed.{90}

 

31.{90}Design alternative #1 proposed by Mr. Menon is approved for  the construction of the brahmacari asrama in Sri Mayapur  Dham.{90}

 

32.{90}That the new Administration Building for Sri Mayapur Temple  and for Mayapur construction management shall be designed to  mirror a section of the existing "Long Building" along the  axis from the samadhi to the future large Temple.{90}

 

33.{90}That it is approved to investigate further for the Master  Plan the idea of basing the master plan on the padmaka  mandala with Northeast orientation of the Main Temple.{90}

 

34.{90}That BBT India funds in the amount of Rs. 34,00,000 may be  used for the construction of an Administration Building for  the Mayapur Project.{90} 

 

35.{90}That BBT India funds in the amount of Rs. 23,00,000 may be  used for the construction of a Brahmacari Ashram.{90}

 

36.{90}That BBT India funds in the amount of Rs. 5,00,000 may be  used as seed money for a grhastha housing project.{90}  The  Mayapur Project will receive housing for its personnel  against this money, as required.{90}

 

37.{90}That BBT India funds in the amount of Rs. 3,00,000 be  allocated as a discretionary fund for small infrastructural  construction projects.{90}

 

38.{90}That the Mayapur Construction Committee may invite other  architects to present designs for the main temple, to be  presented before the next Mayapur meeting.{90}

 

39.{90}That the GBC Body invites Raj Ram to participate in the  design team for the Mayapur Temple.{90}

 

40.{90}  That a committee of Tamal Krishna Goswami, Gopal Krishna  Goswami, Jayapataka Swami, and Satadhanya Prabhu are  authorized to reach a final settlement in the MM De Case at  the lowest possible amount.  This replaces Provisional Order    88-05.{90}

 

41.{90}  That Provisional Order 88-06 is hereby repealed.  The MVT  shall bear the full expense of the MM De Case settlement.{90}

 

42.{90}  That the report of the Calendar Research Committee is accep ted in principle, with thanks.  ISKCON temples throughout  the world shall follow the official calendar calculated  according to the conclusions of this report, which are:

 

     a) That the calculations should be made based upon the local  time of sunrise.

     b) That a computerized method of calculations is acceptable.

     c) That the length of a muhurta shall be calculated as a  15th part of the daytime and a 15th part of the nighttime.

     d) That sunrise shall be defined as the time of calculated visibility of the upper limb of the sun at the horizon,  and the time of sunset as the time of calculated disappearance of the upper limb of the sun at the horizon.

     e) That the calculations shall be based upon the positions  of the heavenly bodies as determined according to  modern scientific astronomical observations.{90}

 

43.{90}  That for 1990-91, Harikesa Maharaj will make available to  all ISKCON Centers printouts of a calendar calculated for  the local area. This shall be the authorized calendar that  all ISKCON temples should follow.  The computer program  itself shall also be made available.  Postage and incidental  expenses for this will be reimbursed from the GBC Budget.   The Executive Committee will institute procedures for dis tributing calendars for future years.  Copies of the calen dar report may also be made available to interested parties.{90}

 

44.{90}  That the calendar generated by the program written by the  Calendar Research Committee shall be the standard calendar  to be followed by all ISKCON centers.[ISKCON LAW]

 

45.{90}  That the GBC Body commends Bhaktisvarup Damodar Maharaj and  the members of the Bhaktivedanta Institute for their  successful conference in San Francisco.{90}

 

46.{90}  That Provisional Order 89-65 which created a Deity Worship  Research Group is modified to appoint Krishna Ksetra as  coordinator.  Harikesa Swami shall be the Executive Commit tee liaison for this research group.{90}

 

47.{90}  That Provisional Orders 88-36, 88-59, 89-01, 89-28, 89-48,  89-53, 89-54, 89-56, 89-77, 89-89, and 89-94 are hereby  retired.{90}

 

48.{90}  That Provisional Orders 88-50, 89-27, 89-51, 89-61, 89-66,  and 89-98 are continued.{90}

 

49.{90}  That Provisional Order 89-05 be repealed.  In order to  adequately arrange for the worship of Srila Prabhupada in  his Vrindaban Samadhi, each GBC Zonal Secretary shall be  allocated a four month period during which that member will  take responsibility for the worship.  This responsibility  will include paying Rs. 3,000 per month for the expenses of  the worship and sending one or two devotees to perform the  worship.{90}

 

50.{90}  That the GBC Body acknowledges and appreciates the service  of Abhiram Prabhu in fulfilling the mandate given to him by  the GBC Body to assist in the sale of the Miami Beach proìperty and the purchase and renovation of the new property.{90}

 

51.{90}  That Provisional Orders 89-69 and 89-70 are continued.  The  Calendar Research Committee shall continue to research the  aspects presented in their 1989 paper [as per recorded notes  of Jayapataka Swami.{90}]

 

52.{90} That the budget submitted by the Mayapur Development  Committee for the design concept of Matsya Avatar Prabhu is  approved as modified thus:

 

     Chamber                  Rs.  25.72 lac

Doors                          6.00

Main Floor                     5.50

Columns 1st floor int          1.50

Walls interior                 3.00

Alcoves                        3.05 addl. may be approved

Entrance Gates                 1.20

Jalli or Mosaic                2.30 addl. may be approved

Dome Interior:

     Mosaic                    7.00

     Windows                   1.00

     Scaffold                  2.50

     Chandelier               wait

     Other Lights              2.00

Auditorium                     1.65

Terra Cotta                    9.42

Railings                       5.26

Walls/Columns Exterior         2.47

Shellroof                      0.57

Dome Exterior                  1.07

Kalasa                        14.82

Landscaping and addl gardens   6.72 (should be less)

Spiral Staircase               1.40

Rooms in Towers                0.63

Backstairs                     0.35

Main Entrance Stairs           0.25

Museum                         4.00

Overhead for 3 years          21.50

Reserve for Misc              15.00

 

53.  That these estimates shall be further reviewed by Naresvara  das, Tosan Krishna das, Hansa Rupa das, and Kadamba Kanana  das, who will report back to the Development Committee.

 

54.  That before work on the kalash begins, the Mayapur Develop ment Committee shall be satisfied that proper research has  been done into structural, tax and duty considerations.  It  shall also be satisfied that the gold tiles on the kalash  will be sufficiently visibile.

 

55.{90}  That the GBC Body design recommendation is to leave the  alcoves on the samadhi walls in the same form and configura tion as per the original design.{90}

 

56.{90}  That Tamal Krishna Goswami and Naresvara Prabhu shall re quest Ambarish Prabhu for a contribution towards the comple tion of Srila Prabhupada's Puspa Samadhi Mandir in Mayapur.{90}

 

57.{90}  That whatever amount Ambarish Prabhu is unable to contribute  for the samadhi completion shall be shared equally between  the BBT India Funds and continuing Samadhi payments from the  temples.{90}

 

58.{90}  That the GBC hereby establishes a GBC Communications Office  which is to work directly under the GBC Executive Committee.   The specific functions of the GBC Communications Office  shall be determined by GBC Resolution from year to year, and  also by the regular direction of the GBC Executive Committee.  Initially, it would perform the following functions:

 

     a) It would include and expand the current functioning of  the Corresponding Secretary's office, facilitating the  passing of legislation at the Annual Meeting and through  correspondence, and assisting in other ways with the  operations of the Executive Committee.{90}

     b) It would work to speed up the process of preparation,  adoption, ratification, and implementation of an ISKCON  constitution, which includes participation in the work of  the GBC Rules Revision Committee.{90}

     c) It would work to protect the international rights to the  terms "ISKCON","International Society for Krishna Con sciousness", "Hare Krishna Movement", and "Hare Krishna  Food for Life".{90}

     d) It would develop and implement a uniform system for shar ing international expenses between temples, centers, and  other projects.  It would be responsible for collecting  fees assessed upon temples by the GBC Body for its admin istrative functions.  It would also be available to  assist other ISKCON organizations in the collection of  GBC approved fees and assessments.{90}

     e) It would keep important documents on permanent file, and  would make information available to others as appro priate.

     f) It would be available to assist in the day-to-day work of  ISKCON-related organizations such as the MVT, VIHE, etc.,  according to the GBC Body's priorities.{90}

     g) It would assist in the production and distribution of the  ISKCON Journal.{90}

     h) It would assist the Executors Committee in its functions  by performing various secretarial tasks.{90}

 

The staff of the GBC Communications Office shall not include  any GBC Members, and the Office finances should not be de pendent on a small group of temples or individuals.{90}      

 

59.{90}  That the GBC Body requests the Mayapur management to install  the remaining four gopis by Janmastami of this year.{90}

 

60.{90}  [UNPUBLISHED]

 

61.{90}  That the GBC appreciates the generosity of Sri A.K. Roy and  others for their offer to donate towards a guest house for ISKCON at Sri Mayapur Dham.  We also appreciate the work  that has been done so far, and we urge him to complete the  balance of the work as soon as possible.  ISKCON agrees to  allot some small number of rooms in reserve on bet-nama  system for the use of Mr. A.K. Roy, his family members, and  other donors during their visits to Mayapur.  We regret the  inability to enter into any commercial or profit-sharing  agreement.{90}

 

62.{90}  That Bhurijana Prabhu be approved as an Assistant GBC  Member.{90}

 

63.{90}  That the GBC Body authorizes that Rs. 7 lac be allocated  immediately from India Funds for the completion of construc tion of the Bhubanesvar Temple.{90}

 

64.{90}  That the Vrindaban ISKCON project shall be organized with  the focus on education, i.e. that all aspects of the project  will be seen as parts of a campus that exist to further the  educational aims.  All persons who come to the campus, for  an hour, a week, a year, or any length of time should find  opportunities to be educated in Krishna consciousness.{90}

 

65.{90}  That Harikesa Swami is hereby added to the committee to  negotiate in Andhra Pradesh, as approved in Resolution 90-20  of February 19.  This committee shall have full authority to  conclude a settlement on any terms, including to divide the  Trust property, if necessary, except that under no circum stances will the terms of the settlement result in a total  loss of the property.{90}

 

66.{90}  That the GBC Body requests Tattva Darshan Prabhu and Sauri  Prabhu to remain at their current services on behalf of the  Hyderabad Farm project for the next year.{90}

 

67.{90}  That Tirupati be added to the Tamil Nadu zone, and the man agement there be coordinated with the Madras region and its  regional secretary, Bhanu Swami.  Bhaktiswarup Damodar Swami  shall continue as a co-GBC for Tirupati, with special  emphasis on rebuilding the public image.{90}

 

68.{90}  That the GBC directs the Executive Committee to gather all  of Srila Prabhupada's instructions regarding the GBC for  future reference.{90}

    

69.{90}  That Bhaktitirtha Swami shall be placed on probation for the  following:

 

a) Failing to attend the Annual GBC Meetings for four years.{90}

b) Failing to submit an Annual Report for at least two years.{90}

c) Failing to pay the 1989-90 GBC Executive Committee  Assessment fee of $250.{90}

d) Failing to follow the guidance of the GBC Body under  Resolution 89-52 giving him a specific program to in crease his association with senior ISKCON devotees.{90}

 

The specific program of rectification is as follows:

 

a) He must function through the year under the continuing  direct supervision of the GBC Executive Committee.{90}

b) He must bring the procedures in his zone for the honoring  and worshiping of guru into conformity with those pre scribed in the laws of ISKCON.{90}

c) He must cooperate with the co-GBC's assigned to his zone  and render whatever assistance is required for them to  execute their responsibilities.{90}

d) He must rectify the above censurable offenses by attend ing the 1991 Annual GBC Meetings, submitting an Annual  Report by May 31, 1990, and paying the $250 arrears, plus  all current assessments on a timely basis.{90}

e) He must spend one month in Mayapur during June/July and  one month in Vrindaban during Kartika.{90}

 

Furthermore, whereas Bhaktitirtha Swami has repeatedly fail ed to follow the directives of the GBC Body such that the  GBC Body has serious doubts as to his abilities to instill  in his disciples the importance of following the ISKCON's  authorized authority structure, he is hereby placed on pro bation as an ISKCON guru.  During the period of probation he  must cease initiating any new disciples.{90}

 

     The Executive Committee of the GBC shall monitor  Bhaktitirtha Swami's compliance with the terms of these  rectification procedures.  Should they determine that he is  not following the terms of the GBC Body probation, they are  empowered to suspend Bhaktitirtha Swami from the GBC Body.   Should they determine that he is not following the terms of  the probation as guru by further initiating disciples, they  are empowered to suspend Bhaktitirtha Swami as an authorized  ISKCON guru.  Bhakticaru Swami is appointed as liaison to  communicate with Bhaktitirtha Swami on all matters related  to this resolution.{90} [unanimous]

 

70.{90}  That the GBC Body authorizes further investigation into the  advantages and disadvantages of incorporating itself for the  purposes of:

     a) protecting itself from liability for debts of or claims  against individual ISKCON temples or other related  organizations;

     b) for improving its ability to prevent temples from devia ting from ISKCON's basic philosophical and ecclesiatical  tenets;

     c) for holding and protecting rights to the various ISKCON  trademarks, licensing them to authorized ISKCON centers  and projects; and

     d) for other purposes which may become apparent during the  investigation.{90}

 

     A full report shall be prepared for the GBC Body, including  samples of all necessary documents, and in general how the  corporation will function and relate to ISKCON centers and  projects.  Mrgendra das is requested to coordinate this work  and obtain the necessary legal advice.  He is requested to  try to minimize the expense for this work as far as  possible, but under no circumstances shall the expense  exceed $2,000.{90}

 

This report shall be submitted for approval by the GBC Body  either through Correspondence or at the next Annual Meeting.   If the plan is approved, the corporation shall then be  formed and all ISKCON centers and projects will be  instructed to cooperate with the plan.{90}

 

71.{90}  That if the Executive Committee of the GBC Body determines  that an adverse decision in the Robin George case warrants  it, they shall be authorized to convene an Extraodinary  General Meeting of the entire GBC Body to decide on a course  of action.{90}

 

72.{90}  Whereas Sankerbrt das was suspended by the GBC Body last  year from holding any managerial post in any ISKCON temple,

pending approval of the Indian Continental Committee.{90}

 

     Whereas Sankerbrt das has been repeatedly requested by  ISKCON authorities to present proper accounts to respond to  allegations of misappropriation of ISKCON and BI funds.{90}

 

     Whereas Sankerbrt das has continued to collect in the name  of ISKCON by deceptive means after his suspension, has  mislead ISKCON authorities about the accounts of huge  amounts collected from the public in the name of the  Tirupati project, and has not presented the proper accounts  requested of him.{90}

 

Whereas Sankerbrt das' actions have given a bad name to  ISKCON all over South India, especially among ISKCON's  biggest supporters.{90}

 

     Whereas Sankerbrt das has not been able to rectify his

devious mentality despite repeated attempts to advise him  over the past nine years.{90}

 

     It is hereby resolved that Sankerbrt das is expelled from  ISKCON.{90}

 

73.{90}  [See Resolution #90-128 below for additional information]

 

[A.{90} Prohibition Order Against the Posthumous Ritvik Theory]

 

Whereas the posthumous ritvik theory (a concocted system by  which a spiritual master allegedly acts as diksa guru after  his departure through the agency of ritviks or officiating ìpriests) has never been sanctioned by His Divine Grace A.C.  Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada;

 

Whereas posthumous ritvik initiation has never been prac ticed by the Gaudiya Vaisnava Sampradaya (disciplic success ion);

 

Whereas posthumous ritvik initiation has never been approved  by sadhu, sastra, and guru;

 

Whereas the posthumous ritvik theory essentially conflicts  with the law of disciplic succession as established by Lord  Sri Krishna, as taught by Srila Prabhupada and all previous  Acaryas, and as practiced by all bona fide Vaisnava sampra dayas;

 

The GBC hereby declares that the posthumous ritvik initia tion theory is a dangerous philosophical deviation. It is  therefore totally prohibited in ISKCON. No devotee shall  participate in such posthumous ritvik initiation ceremony in  any capacity including acting as ritvik, initiate, assist ant, organizer, or financer. No ISKCON devotee shall advo cate or support its practice.{90}

 

[B. Concerning the rectification of the editors of the Vedic      Village Review]

 

Whereas ISKCON law prescribes expulsion of a member from     ISKCON for the following two reasons:

 

The member is openly deviating from the fundamental  tenents of the Society's teaching,

and;

     The member is openly and flagrantly antagonistic to the  GBC or other ISKCON authority;

 

Whereas the Vedic Village Review (which started as a farm  newsletter of activities of the New Jaipur rural community)  has subsequently begun publishing sensitive philosophical  matters (normally restricted to proper senior Vaisnava  forums) in an increasingly sensational, antagonistic manner;

 

Whereas Nityananda das, publisher and editor, and Karnamrita  das and Rupavilas das, editors of the magazine Vedic Village  Review have publicly preached deviant philosophical under standings;

 

Whereas the editors of the Vedic Village Review have begun  actively undermining the faith of ISKCON devotees in the  authorized Krishna conscious philosophy and in the institu tions established by Srila Prabhupada;

 

Whereas, without following proper ISKCON procedure, the edi tors of Vedic Village Review have villified and publicly  attacked in the pages of their magazine many senior members ìof the ISKCON society.

 

Whereas the editors of the Vedic Village Review have been  publicly antagonistic to the GBC Body and the principle of  authority in ISKCON;

 

Whereas the editors of the Vedic Village Review have irres ponsibly published false and unsubstantiated allegations  that the GBC body and several ISKCON senior members have  conspired to suppress Srila Prabhupada's will and to mislead  the ISKCON society;

 

Whereas the editors of the Vedic Village Review have drawn- up and published a petition in their magazine calling for  the GBC to declare the disciples of current ISKCON gurus to  be diksha disciples of Srila Prabhupada;

 

Whereas the editors of the Vedic Village Review have brought  considerable damage to the society by these activities.

 

Therefore, the GBC body, with deep regret, makes the follow ing resolution according to it's laws. Although the philoso phical deviations of the Vedic Village Review have been  thoroughly exposed in The ISKCON Journal, the GBC unfortun ately finds it necessary to take further action to protect  the integrity of the whole ISKCON Society.{90}

 

The GBC body declares that it is their sincere desire that  Nityananda das, Rupa Vilas das, and Karnamrita das, realize,  regret, and are willing to recitify their mistakes and re- unite themselves with ISKCON. They are talented devotees  capable of doing tremendous preaching work for Srila  Prabhupada's movement; unfortunately, they are now misusing  their abilities to create havoc within ISKCON.{90}

 

The GBC declares that it is prepared to forgive the VVR  editors for their mistakes, and that they are always welcome  in ISKCON, provided they completely adhere to the following  conditions:

 

It is hereby resolved that Nityananda das, Rupa Vilas das,  and Karnamrita das have until May 31, 1990 to rectify them selves by submitting in writing to the Corresponding Secre tary of the GBC a statement which:

 

1. Retracts their allegations of a conspiracy by Tamal  Krishna Goswami and other members of the GBC.

 

2. Admit the error of their posthumous ritvik theory.

 

3. Apologize for the disruption caused to members of ISKCON  by the formulation of their unauthorized philosophy.

 

4. Apologize for their antagonistic attitude towards GBC  policies and practices.

 

5. Permit the Executive Committee of the GBC to distribute  this written rectification -- and other material as they  deem necessary -- to the entire distribution base of the  Vedic Village Review at the expense of the VVR.

 

If they fail to rectify themselves in this manner to the  satisfaction of the GBC Executive Committee by May 31, 1990,  the GBC body is regretfully compelled to hereby resolve to  expell by ISKCON law, as individuals, Vedic Village Review's  editors Nityananda das, Rupa Vilas das, and Karnamrita das,  from ISKCON. Furthermore, the GBC Body hereby directs all  ISKCON leaders to take the necessary steps to prohibit the  distribution in their temples of the Vedic Village Review  and other publications containing similarly questionable  material. Distribution may only be resumed with the per mission of the GBC Executive Commitee.{90}

 

[C. Reinstatement Procedure]

 

In taking these severe measures, the GBC is following the  example of Srila Prabhupada, who at different times simi larly expelled disciples who introduced concocted philoso phies into the movement. As soon as these disciples recti fied their misunderstanding and attitude, His Divine Grace  accepted them back into the fold.

 

In the event, therefore, that Nityananda das, Rupa Vilas  das, and Karnamrita das are however, individually expelled  from ISKCON, but subsequently submit a document to the  Corresponding Secretary which rectifies themselves in the  above manner to the satisfaction of the GBC Executive  Committee, they  may be individually reinstated as members  of ISKCON in good standing.

 

Should either or both of the other two editors wish to  rectify themselves independently of Nityananda Prabhu, they  may be exempt from complying with #5 above, but they must  leave the New Jaipur Community.{90}

 

74.{90} [UNPUBLISHED]

 

75.{90}[UNPUBLISHED]

 

76.{90}[UNPUBLISHED]

 

77.{90}That Giriraj Swami travel with Kavicandra Swami through  Bhaktitirtha Swami's zone at least once during 1990.{90}

 

78.{90}That the local GBC effectively organize at least two other  sannyasis to travel in West Africa this year.{90}

 

79.{90}That Balavanta das be placed on probation for failure to  submit Annual Reports for 1988 (even after extension was  granted under resolution #89-56), and for 1989; for failing ìto attend the 1989 and 1990 General Meetings without  sufficient excuse, for failing to answer three of four  Correspondence Proposals during the 1989-90 year, and for  failing to pay GBC Assessment Fees for 1987-88, 88-89, and  89-90.{90}

 

     The specific program of rectification shall be as follows:

 

a) Submit an Annual Report by May 15, 1990.

b) Pay back GBC Assessment Fees of $450 by May 15, 1990.

c) Submit a proposal to the Corresponding Secretary by May  15, 1990 for what his service shall be, and if it  warrants a GBC portfolio.  This shall be circulated as  a Correspondence Proposal.

 

All GBC Voting Priveleges shall be suspended during the  period of probation.

 

Hrdayananda Goswami is deputed to discuss this matter with  Balavanta Prabhu, and warn him that if they are not met he  shall be subject to Suspension from the GBC at the 1991  Annual Meeting.

 

80.  That Giriraj Swami replace Rupanuga das on the ISKCON Review  Board for the "Area of Specialty" of "General". [Rupanuga  Prabhu resigned from this position.]

 

81.{90}  [UNPUBLISHED]

 

82.{90}That the GBC Body considers it to be a top priority matter  that Giriraj Swami be granted at least a visitors visa into  India to be able to attend the Annual GBC Meetings beginning  in 1991.  As many well-intentioned individual efforts have  not proven successful in this regard, a GBC-level committee  is hereby created, called the Visa Action Committee, to  coordinate a concerted effort to achieve this goal.  This  Committee shall meet initially before Gour Purnima, and at  least once more during the year.  Regular reports of its  efforts shall be sent to the Executive Committee and  Corresponding Secretary.{90}

 

83.{90} That the Visa Action Committee shall be Giriraj Swami, Gopal  Krishna Goswami, Jayapataka Swami, Bhakti Caru Swami,  Yasomatinandana das, Kirtiraj das, Tosan Krishna das, Adri dharana das, Satadhanya das, Mahamantra das, and Madhu  Pandit das.  Madhu Pandit das shall be the convenor of the  first meeting.{90}

 

84.{90} That Sri Sri Radha-Gokulananda and Sri Sri Gour-Nitai on the  farm in Mauritius may be moved to Their land in the center  of Mauritius.{90}

 

85.{90}  [REPEALED AND REPLACED BY RESOLUTION 132 BELOW] That the GBC  Body hereby establishes the "Srila Prabhupada Centennial  Committee" to coordinate the worldwide festivities in honor ìof the one hundreth anniversary of Srila Prabhupada's  appearance in 1996.  Padayatra shall concentrate its efforts  on the glorification of Srila Prabhupada in coordination  with this Committee.{90}

 

86.{90}  That the "Guru Research Group" is hereby renamed as  "Philosophical Research Group".  The following devotees are  added to that group: Sadaputa das, Bhaktiswarup Damodar  Swami, Harikesa Swami, Tamal Krishna Goswami, Bhanu Swami,  and Suhotra Swami.

87.  That the GBC officially issue a paper giving sastric support  describing from where and how the spirit soul comes to the  material world.  The research for this paper shall be  provided by the members of the Philosophical Research Group.{90}

 

88.{90}  That devotees who have left ISKCON are welcome back into  ISKCON at any time, provided only that they agree that the  ultimate managerial authority for all of ISKCON must be the  GBC Body, that they will follow all GBC Resolutions up-to- date, and that they accept His Divine Grace A.C. Bhakti vedanta Swami Prabhupada, Founder-Acarya of ISKCON, as the  preeminent pure devotee under whose guidance, teachings, and  instructions Lord Caitanya's movement should now spread.{90}  

 

     The procedure for formal reinstatement shall be that  the devotee desiring to return shall send a signed letter to  any GBC member stating his agreement to the above-listed  provisions.  This GBC member shall send the letter to the  GBC Corresponding Secretary, who shall distribute copies to  all GBC members.  If no objections are received by the  Corresponding Secretary within 90 days of the date of mail ing of the copies to all members, then the Corresponding  Secretary shall send a notice of reinstatement to the devo tee in question.  During the waiting period the devotee may  serve under the auspices of a GBC member.{90}

 

     Notwithstanding the above, in the following cases  reinstatement may only be granted by resolution of the full  GBC Body:

 

     a) Devotees who were ISKCON initiating gurus at the time of  their original departure from ISKCON, or devotees who  accepted disciples since leaving ISKCON;

     b) Devotees who are accused or who have been found guilty of  any serious crime;

     c) Devotees who are currently in the sannyas asram;

     d) Devotees who were removed from ISKCON by a GBC Resolution;

     e) Devotees for whom a written objection from a GBC Member  has been submitted to the Corresponding Secretary within  90 days of notification, as per above.{90}

 

89.{90}  That the ISKCON Board of Examinations shall be Bhurijana  das, Atma Tattva das, Bhakticaru Swami, and Dhanurdhara  Swami.{90}

 

90.{90}  That all previous resolutions on the subject of Annual  Reports be repealed and replaced by the following wording:                                 

 

That every GBC member shall be required to submit Annual  Reports in a timely manner to the GBC Body.  A report shall  be timely submitted if it is received by the Corresponding  Secretary either at his permanent address at least two weeks  prior to the beginning of the Annual Meetings, or in Mayapur  at least 48 hours prior to the beginning of the first ses sion of the Annual GBC meeting.  The reports shall be typed  on 8-1/2 x 11" or A4 paper size, and there shall be suffi cient copies submitted for the total number of GBC members,  plus five extra copies.  The report shall conform to any  format guidelines which may be promulgated by the Executive  Committee.{90}

 

A member failing to submit an annual report in a timely  manner shall be subject to censure by the GBC Body.  Members  should insure that their Annual Reports are submitted in  time, even though they may possess an excused absense or  tardiness for the Annual Meeting.{90}

 

91.{90}  That during the period from March 1990 to March 1991, the  GBC will make a concerted effort to help Mukunda Goswami in  his quest to obtain a qualified, mature devotee to assist  the ISKCON Ministry of Public Affairs.  His title and port folio will be "Director of Public Affairs for the United  States".

 

92. {90} That before a devotee can be recommended for initiation or  be officially encouraged to take shelter of a particular  ISKCON spiritual master he or she should demonstrate a basic  understanding of Srila Prabhupada's teachings by answering  an oral or written test administered by the Temple Presi dent.  The questions to be answered are:

 

 1. What are the qualifications of a bonafide spiritual  master?

 2. Why are you convinced to follow the orders of the  spiritual master in this life, and even life after life?

 3. Why does one worship the spiritual master like God?

 4. Do you believe the spiritual master speaks the absolute  truth?  If so, why?

 5. Under what circumstances should the spiritual master be  rejected?

 6. What are the qualifications and responsibilities of a  disciple?

 7. What is the unique position of Srila Prabhupada in  ISKCON?

 8. Why do you accept Lord Krishna as the Supreme  Personality of Godhead?

 9. Why do we follow the four regulative principles?

10. Why do we chant Hare Krishna?

11. What is the position of the GBC Body?

12. Explain the difference between the body and the self?

13. What is ISKCON, and why should one remain in ISKCON?

 

 

93.{90}  That all ISKCON projects should cooperate with the Board of  Education by supplying, when requested, the names and   addresses of all grhasthas living in the temples and others  with whom the temples are in contact. The Board of Education  is to utilize this information for the sole purposes of  making available to the ISKCON grhastha community its ser vices, guidance, and publications, and attempting to develop  them as long term supporters of the ISKCON educational  effort. 

94.{90}  That the GBC Body issue a definitive statement on the posi tion of Kirtanananda Swami, and include specific instruc tions for his followers, disciples, and devotees in general.   Any accusations that have been verified should be made known.{90}

 

95.{90}  That the Trustees of the Mayapur Vrindaban Trust shall be  Jayapataka Swami, Tamal Krishna Goswami, Gopal Krishna  Goswami, Naresvara das, Tosan Krishna das, Adridharan das,  and Abhiram das.{90}

 

96.{90}  That the GBC states, in response to the petition of Manihara  das, that it is willing to reconsider its resolution 89-73  after Manihara das stands trial in California on the child  molestation charges brought against him.{90}

 

97.{90}  That ISKCON spearhead an international "Save Vrindaban"  campaign, which could have tremendous preaching potential,  both in India and abroad.  A committee, the Save Vrindaban  Campaign Committee, is hereby formed to take up the work.{90}

 

98.{90}  That the Save Vrindaban Campaign Committee shall be  Kirtiraj das, Gopal Krishna Goswami, Bhakticaru Swami, Dina  Bandhu das, Jagattarini devi dasi, and Ranchor das.{90} 

99.{90}  That the ISKCON Journal shall be an occasional publication;   each issue shall be thematic, and deal conclusively, delving  fully into relevant specific issues.  It shall, however,  publish at least one issue a year giving in-depth presenta tions of select resolutions passed at the GBC Annual Meeting.{90}

 

100.{90} That the Editorial Board of the ISKCON Journal shall be  Bhakticaru Swami, Hrdayananda Goswami, Rabindra Swarup das,  Sri Ram das, and Virabahu das.  Ravindra Swarup das shall be  Editor-in-Chief, working under the direction of the  Editorial Board

 

101.{90} That no devotee who has remarried after having been divorced  from a devotee-spouse shall serve as a member of the  Governing Body Commission.  Exempt from this law are  devotees who become divorced against their desire by the  action of their spouses, or as a consequence of their  spouses' becoming committed non-devotees.  Provisionally ìexempt are devotees who were divorced prior to the effective  date of this resolution, March 2, 1990.{90}

 

102. [UNPUBLISHED]

 

103.{90} That Resolution 90-73 be amended.  The deadline of May 31,  1990 is extended until August 1, 1990.{90}

 

104.{90} That Nityananda das, Rupa Vilas das, and Karnamrita das are  encouraged to associate with GBC members to better  understand the correct parampara teachings on guru-tattva.   In particular, we invite them to the next meeting of the  North American GBC to associate for this purpose.{90}

 

105.{90}That Niranjana Swami is requested to spend 4-6 weeks  preaching in Benelux.{90}

 

106.{90} That the zonal assignments for 1990-91 are as follows: 

 

Agrani Swami: 

      GBC -- Caribbean, Bermuda, South Florida

          co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami, Bhaktisvarup Damodar  Swami and Jayapataka Swami for Andhra Pradesh,  except Tirupati

 

Badrinarayan das: 

      co-GBC with Hari Vilas for Los Angeles

          GBC for Southern California, Arizona, Nevada, New  Mexico, Colorado, Idaho, Utah, Illinois, Iowa,  Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri

 

Balavanta das: 

          No Portfolio    

 

Bhakti Bhusana Goswami: 

      GBC -- Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay

 

Bhakti Caru Swami:

      GBC for Belgium, Luxembourg, and Holland

      co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for West Bengal

      co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Prabhavisnu Swami for             Bangladesh

      co-GBC with Bhakti Swarup Damodar Swami for France

          co-GBC with Giriraj Swami for South Africa

          co-GBC with Tosan Krishna for New York and New Jersey

          co-GBC for Mayapur and Calcutta (*)

 

 Bhakti Swarup Damodar Swami: 

      GBC -- Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh

          co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Tripura, Assam,  Meghalaya

          co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Prabhavisnu Swami for Tirupati

          co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami for Burma

          co-GBC with Gopal Krsna Goswami for Kuruksetra

          co-GBC with Bhakti Caru Swami for France

          co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami, Gopal Krishna Goswami,  and Agrani Swami for Andhra Pradesh, except  Tirupati

 

Bhaktitirtha Swami: 

      co-GBC with Kavicandra Swami and Giriraj Swami for  Central Africa, West Africa

          co-GBC with Hari Vilas for North Africa

 

    Bhurijana das:

          Assistant GBC to Gopal Krishna Goswami, Jagadisha Gos wami, and Tosan Krishna das for West Uttar Pradesh  (including Vrindaban), Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh

 

Giriraj Swami: 

      GBC -- Mauritius, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Swaziland,  Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana

          co-GBC with Bhakti Caru Swami for South Africa

          co-GBC with Jagadisa Goswami for Spain, Portugal

          co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami and Tamal Krishna  Goswami for Bombay

          co-GBC with Bhaktitirtha Swami and Kavicandra Swami for  Central and West Africa

 

Gopal Krsna Goswami: 

      GBC -- Goa, Maharashtra (other than Bombay), Punjab,  Haryana, Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat,  Kenya

          co-GBC with Kirtiraj for Delhi

          co-GBC with Tamal Krishna Goswami and Giriraj Swami for  Bombay

          co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami, Bhaktisvarup Damodar  Swami, and Agrani Swami for Andhra Pradesh, except  Tirupati

          co-GBC with Bhaktiswarupa Damodar Swami for Kuruksetra

      co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami for East Uttar Pradesh

          co-GBC with Jagadish Goswami and Tosan Krishna das,  assisted by Bhurijan das, for West Uttar Pradesh  Vrindaban, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh

      co-GBC with Niranjana Swami for Montreal

          co-GBC with Ravindra Swarup for Washington DC

 

Gour Govinda Swami:

      co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Orissa

 

Guru Gauranga das: 

      Minister of Justice

 

Guru Prasad Swami: 

      GBC -- Venezuela, Columbia, Central America, Mexico

 

Harikesa Swami: 

      GBC -- East Germany, W.{90} Germany, Switzerland, Austria,  Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Faroe ìIslands, Yugoslavia, Lichtenstein

          co-GBC with Kirtiraj for Almviks Gard farm

          co-GBC for Mayapur and Calcutta(*)

 

Hari Vilas das:

GBC -- Turkey, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia,  Kuwait,Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Oman,  North and South Yemen, Afghanistan, Northern  California, Oregon, Hardwar and Rishikesh

          co-GBC with Jagadisa Goswami for State of Washington  and British Columbia

          co-GBC with Badrinarayan for Los Angeles

 

    Hrdayananda das Goswami: 

 GBC -- North and Central Florida, Greece and Cyprus

          co-GBC with Loka Saksi for Brazil

          co-GBC with Jagadisa Goswami for Italy

 

Jagadisa Goswami:      

      co-GBC with Niranjana Swami for Ottawa and Toronto

co-GBC with Giriraj Swami for Spain and Portugal

co-GBC with Hrdayananda Goswami for Italy

      co-GBC with Gopal Krsna Goswami and Toshan Krishna das,  assisted by Bhurijana das, for Vrindaban, West                      Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan

     co-GBC with Hari Vilas for State of Washington and  British Columbia

 

Jayapataka Swami: 

      GBC for Karnataka, Kerala, Pondicherry, Maldives,  Bhutan, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Tennessee,  North and South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama,  Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana

      GBC, assisted by Virabahu das, for Bolivia, Ecuador,  Chile, and Peru

      co-GBC with  Prabhavisnu Swami for Bihar, Sikkim, Nepal,  Malaysia, Tamil Nadu, and Singapore

          co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami and Bhaktiswarup Damodar  Swami for Tirupati

          co-GBC with Prabhavisnu Swami and Bhakticaru Swami for  Bangladesh

      co-GBC with Kavicandra Swami for Thailand

      co-GBC with Bhakti Caru Swami for West Bengal

          co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami, Agrani Swami, and  Bhaktisvarup Damodar Swami for Andhra Pradesh,  except Tirupati

          co-GBC for Mayapur and Calcutta(*)

 

Kavicandra Swami: 

          GBC -- Japan, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Hawaii, Indonesia

          co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Thailand

     co-GBC with Bhaktitirtha Swami and Giriraj Swami for  Central and West Africa    

 

Kirtiraja das: 

      GBC -- USSR, Poland, Bulgaria, Rumania, Albania,  Czechoslovakia, Israel

          co-GBC with Sivarama Swami for Hungary

          co-GBC with Harikesa Swami for Almviks Gard farm

          co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami for Delhi

 

Lokasaksi das: 

          co-GBC with Hrdayananda Goswami for Brazil

 

Mukunda Goswami: 

          Minister of Public Affairs

 

Niranjana Swami: 

      GBC -- New England, Festival of India

          co-GBC with Gopal Krsna Goswami for Montreal

          co-GBC with Jagadisa Goswami for Toronto and Ottawa

 

Prabhavisnu Swami: 

      GBC -- Australia, New Zealand, Brunei, Papua New  Guinea, and New Caledonia

      co-GBC with Bhaktisvarup Damodar Swami for Burma

          co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami for Bihar, Sikkim, Nepal,             Malaysia, Tamil Nadu, and Singapore

          co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Bhaktiswarup Damodar  Swami for Tirupati

      co-GBC with Gopal Krsna Goswami for Eastern Uttar Pradesh           co-GBC with Jayapataka Swami and Bhakticaru Swami for  Bangladesh

 

Ravindra Svarup: 

      GBC -- Michigan, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland,  Ohio, and Virginia

          co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami for Washington DC

 

Sivarama Swami: 

      GBC -- England, Scotland, Wales, Channel Islands,  Ireland

          co-GBC with Kirtiraj for Hungary

          co-GBC for Mayapur and Calcutta (*)

 

Tamal Krsna Goswami:  

      GBC -- Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Hong Kong, China, Korea,  Taiwan, Philippines

          co-GBC with Vasudeva for Polynesia

          co-GBC with Gopal Krishna Goswami and Giriraj Swami for                 Bombay

          co-GBC for Mayapur and Calcutta (*)

 

Tosan Krsna das: 

      co-GBC with Bhakticaru Swami for New York and New Jersey

          co-GBC with Jagadisha Goswami, Gopal Krishna Goswami,  assisted by Bhurijan das for Vrindaban, West Uttar  Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh

          co-GBC for Mayapur and Calcutta (*)

 

Vasudeva das: 

      GBC -- Fiji

          co-GBC with Tamal Krsna Goswami for Polynesia

 

    Virabahu das:

          Assistant GBC to Jayapataka Swami for Peru, Ecuador,  Bolivia and Chile

 

    * co-GBC's for Mayapur and Calcutta are Jayapataka Swami,  Harikesa Swami, Tamal Krishna Goswami,Sivarama Swami,  Bhakticaru Swami and Toshan Krishna das

 

107.{90} That the paper, "Questions and Answers on Guru Asraya: A  Supplement" is adopted by the GBC as an official supplement  to its 1989 paper "Guru Asraya".{90}

 

108.{90} That, since Resolution #90-57 calls for payments to begin  from all ISKCON Temples toward the construction of Srila  Prabhupada's Puspa Samadhi Mandir in Mayapur, it has been deter mined that these payments shall be assessed on all ISKCON  Temples proportionately to the number of full-time devotees  in the temple.  Assessments for third-world Temples have been calculated at 50%, and the Executive Committee has con sidered certain exceptional cases and made adjustments  accordingly.  Although the needed amount is yet to be deter mined, assuming that this resolution will require the sum of  $250,000 to be raised over a two year period, the actual  payments per temple shall be according to the official list  prepared by Naresvara Prabhu, agreed to by the GBC Members  present, and certified by the GBC Chairman.  If a different  sum is needed, then the monthly payments shall remain the  same and the length of time during which they are required  shall be proportionately adjusted.{90}

 

Special note is taken that past-due amounts remaining from  previous resolutions on the matter of Samadhi payments refer  to the Vrindaban Samadhi, and are to be strictly distin guished from the above-described payments. [Provisional  Order #89-88 is continued, as amounts are still due.]

 

109.{90} That, further to Resolution #90-58 above, the GBC Communica tions Office shall be established in India.  The Executive  Committee shall consider the alternatives of Bombay or  Mayapur and decide which is the more appropriate location.   If both locations are acceptable, Bombay is preferred by the  Body.  Whichever locale is selected, the local management  shall see that the following are provided:

 

     Maintenance for Bhaktarupa das and family, including  airfare to U.{90}S. every two years

     Office facilities

     Needed office equipment - including computer and printer

   Relocation expenses

   Clerical assistance as needed

 

The operational expenses for the GBC Communications Office  shall come from the GBC Administrative Budget.  Bhaktarupa  das will then divide his time equally between serving the  local project and working on GBC international matters.  If  Mayapur is selected for the location, the expenses above  shall be from international funds, and Bhaktarupa das' ser vice for the local project shall be concentrated in areas  relating to internationally-financed development. 

 

110.{90} That the GBC Administrative Budget for 1990-91 is approved    as follows:                                                                                                                      GBC Communications Office            $  5,000          

          Executive Committee Costs               1,500          

          Calendar Distribution                     200          

          Legal Research                          2,000          

          1989 Shortfall                          1,800          

                                              -----------        

               Total                           $ 10,500          

                                                                 

111. That the revenue for the GBC Administrative Budget will be  

     raised by mandatory yearly assessments on GBC Members, based 

     upon the same schedule of proportionality as the samadhi    

     payments described in Resolution 90-108 above, except that  there shall be a minimum $50 payment for each GBC Member.{90}

 

112.{90} That the following committee, called the GBC Health and  Welfare Action Committee, is requested to study social and  related issues in ISKCON and make recommendations to the GBC  Body: Kavicandra Swami, Prahladananda Swami, Bhaktiswarup  Damodar Swami, Kirtiraj das, and Bhaktarupa das.{90}

 

113.{90}That Jayadwaita Swami and Sri Ram das are added as Official  Reviewers, under the ISKCON Publications Review Board.{90}

 

114.{90}That Provisional Order #89-87 is replaced by the following:   All ISKCON temples and projects listed on the "1990 Official  List of ISKCON Temples" shall contribute yearly support to  the ISKCON Board of Education at the following rates:

 

          Developed Countries      $ 50.00

          Third World                20.00

 

Each GBC Secretary shall be responsible to collect the funds  from all projects in his zone or zones and remit them to the  Board of Education treasurer by July 1.{90}

 

115.{90}That the Ministry of Justice immediately consider the  complaint of Kamsa Hanta Prabhu and report to the GBC  Executive Committee.{90}

 

116.{90}That the Mayapur Development Committee shall make a  presentation at each year's festival to the general devotees  regarding the Mayapur Development plans.  This shall be  coordinated by Tosan Krishna das.{90}

 

 

118.{90}That, as the Annual ISKCON Managers' Meeting is a valuable  means to increase the spirit of unity in ISKCON, and in view  of the poor attendance at this meeting recently, each GBC  Zonal Secretary should instruct the eligible managers within  his zone that to attend the Annual Meeting is a mandatory  duty.{90}

 

119.{90}That the following is adopted as the official ISKCON Board  of Education policy on child abuse incidents:

 

1) The local governing authority of each ISKCON school or  community is responsible to appoint two or three devotees  to investigate and follow-up on all suspected or  confirmed cases of child abuse.{90}

2) Suspected or confirmed cases of child abuse must be  reported to local government authorities for  investigation and/or prosecution.  In India, the ISKCON  Board of Education may authorize a waiver of this  requirement if the perpetrator is willing to sign a  statement authorizing the Board of Education to publicize  the incident to all ISKCON-related educational projects  and other concerned parties.

3) All suspected or confirmed incidents of child abuse must  be reported immediately to the local GBC secretary, and  within thirty days, to the ISKCON Board of Education. The  ISKCON Board of Education shall review the investigation  and give a finding as to the status of the alleged  perpetrator as confirmed, suspect, or innocent/not- suspected.

4) The perpetrator or alleged perpetrator must be  immediately segregated so that he has no possible contact  with the victim or other children.  This segregation may  take the form of relocating the perpetrator to another  part of the project, away from children; banishment from  the project (and possibly from other ISKCON projects with  children); or in severe cases, banishment from all ISKCON  projects.  The degree of segregation will be determined  by the nature and severity of the offense; the attitude  of the perpetrator; the feasibility of protecting the  children from further abuse or intimidation; and the  sentiments of the local devotees, especially the parents.   In no case should a confirmed or suspected perpetrator  remain in the local community unless the local ISKCON  authorities obtain the written authorization of no less  than 3/4 of the parents of children at the project or in  the community.  The local government authorities and/or  the ISKCON Board of Education will make the final  determination of the appropriate degree of segregation.

5) Any confirmed child abuser may never again serve in asso ciation with children in any ISKCON project. The Board  will also make available to all ISKCON educational proìjects and temples the names of all accused, admitted,  confirmed or convicted child abusers.

6) Abused children must get appropriate professional  counselling so that the serious ill-effects of the abuse  can be minimized.

7) All ISKCON educational projects must have preventative  programs which train children how to avoid and report  child abuse incidents.

8) The local GBC man (or men) are directly responsible to  implement the measures outlined above. Should the GBC  Body find a GBC man or other ISKCON manager responsible  for suppressing or covering-up complaints of child abuse,  or supporting intimidation of those who might complain,  the GBC man shall be open to censure or probation, and  the ISKCON manager shall be open to appropriate  disciplinary action.

 

120.{90}That if a Temple President or local Temple Council thinks  that an assigned GBC Zonal Secretary is not fulfilling the  responsibilities of that position, he should communicate  with the GBC Executive Committee.{90}

 

121.{90}That a subcommittee of seven members of the ISKCON Managers'  Meeting is invited to assist with the 1991 Annual GBC  Meeting as a working committee that will be assigned  specific duties at that time.  They are: Madhusevita das,  Bhaktiraghava Swami, Jiva Pavana das, Dina Bandhu das,  Krishna Caitanya das, Kesava Bharati das, and Bhaktimarg  Swami.{90}

 

122.{90}That Resolution 90-70 is amended to require that the final  consideration of any plan devised for the incorporation of  the GBC shall not take place before the 1991 Annual Meeting,  at which time the ISKCON Managers present will have the  opportunity to participate in the discussions.  The report  which is to be distributed should include conclusive  evidence that Srila Prabhupada's instructions would not be  contradicted by the contemplated action.{90}

 

123.{90}That Ajamila das is requested to assist the Philosophical  Research Group as an auxiliary researcher.{90}

 

124.{90}That the ISKCON Journal shall inform their readers of the  theme of each upcoming issue and invite the devotees to  contribute articles.{90}

 

125.{90}That Sri Sri Gour-Nitai currently located at the country  ashram in Muldersdrift, South Africa, near Johannesburg, may  be relocated to central Johannesburg.{90}

 

126.{90}That the proposal by Ramanand Sagar for a serialized video production of the pastimes of Krishna based primarily upon  BBT publications be referred to the BBT Trustees, with the  recommendation that it only be permitted if ISKCON devotees  will have the right to veto any portion of the script which ìthey may find objectionable, before shooting.{90}

 

127.{90}That in pursuance of Resolution #90-94 above, the following  is the GBC Body's official statement on Kirtanananda Swami:

 

   The understanding of the GBC Body at the time that  Kirtanananda Swami was expelled from ISKCON was that his  removal as a guru was implicit in his expulsion from ISKCON.{90}   In answer to inquiries, we now make that explicit:

 

1) In Resolution 87-8, the GBC expelled Kirtanananda Swami  for minimizing the pre-eminent position of His Divine  Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada as the Founder- Acarya of ISKCON, for rejecting the Governing Body  Commission as the ultimate managing authority in ISKCON,  for creating a movement separate from ISKCON, for  systematically misrepresenting ISKCON, etc.  The GBC thus  resolved: "... The ISKCON GBC hereby expels Kirtanananda  Swami from ISKCON and thereby removes all his rights and  responsibilities related to ISKCON.."  Therefore,  Kirtanananda Swami was also removed as an initiating guru  of ISKCON by this resolution.  The GBC's offer to  Kirtanananda Swami to return to ISKCON did not compromise  his removal, but was an attempt to have him return to  ISKCON should he have been agreeable to surrender to  Srila Prabhupada's orders.{90}

 

2) After 1987, Kirtanananda Swami not only did not accept  the GBC offer to return to ISKCON, but rather has gone  further away from the teachings of Srila Prabhupada.  His  deviations from the authorized brahma-madhva-gaudiya  sampradaya have multiplied.{90}

 

3) Srila Prabhupada instructed his disciples to remain in  ISKCON and serve cooperatively under the Governing Body  Commission.  Kirtanananda Swami clearly rejects this  instruction, therefore his sanction to be a guru is no  longer valid.{90}

 

Kirtanananda Swami's disciples, his followers, and devotees  in general are hereby advised that Kirtanananda Swami is not  recognized as a guru, as explained above.  They should refer  to the relevant GBC resolutions, to the 1989 paper "Guru  Asraya", and to its 1990 additional explanations for  spiritual guidance and for understanding the appropriate  actions they should take for their spiritual progress.{90}

 

128.{90} That the following is adopted as additional explanatory  material to the above Resolution 90-73 concerning the Vedic  Village Review:

 

It is the sacred duty of the GBC to guard the society from  philosophical deviation. In the last year, ISKCON has seen a  very severe attack against its leaders and the Krsna  conscious philosophy, an attack that has mostly affected ìyounger devotees and also created further confusion for  those devotees whose spiritual masters have fallen down. The  attack has come from the editors of the Vedic Village  Review, the newsletter of the New Jaipur community.{90}

 

In trying to relieve the disturbing situation, the North  American GBC, during its January meeting, organized a debate  with the editors of Vedic Village Review to discuss the  issue face-to-face and confront their destructive  allegations. As a result of the debate, a resolution was  passed to conduct an investigation and have further  discussions during the upcoming Mayapur meetings.{90}

 

Meanwhile, the Executive Committee of the GBC had been  preparing the ISKCON Journal, to present a response to the  accusations. The Journal contained the relevant minutes from  the original GBC minutes book concerning the issue,  interviews with several of the prominent devotees that were  assisting Srila Prabhupada during his last year among us,  including Tamal Krsna Goswami, Bhakti Caru Swami, Jayapataka  Swami, and Narayana Maharaja (a long-standing associate of  Srila Prabhupada and friend of ISKCON).  Also included were  a research document by Ajamila das, and other articles by  senior Prabhupada disciples.{90}

 

During the Mayapur meetings the GBC accepted the general  conclusion of the Journal, considering that it was adequate  to satisfy the concerns of the North American GBC, as  expressed in their resolution. The GBC also strongly  rejected the theories fostered by the editors of the Vedic  Village Review regarding initiations after the departure of  Srila Prabhupada. Srila Prabhupada clearly instructed us  that such disagreements should be settled in the sacred  setting of Sri Mayapur Dhama during the annual GBC meeting  which he instituted.  The North American GBC officers  therefore invited the editors of the Vedic Village Review to  Mayapur to further clarify the matter, but they did not  come.{90}

 

The GBC analyzed the issue and passed the necessary  resolutions.{90} It is our sincere hope that they do not leave  ISKCON. We are prescribing a method of rectification for  their own good and for the good of Srila Prabhupada's  society and the responsibility is on them to accept it or  reject it. Srila Prabhupada was very firm and severe in  dealing with this type of situation, expelling his own  disciples from the society when they became contaminated by  deviant philosophies and were unrepentant. In representing  Srila Prabhupada, the GBC will act in a similar fashion if  it is so obligated.{90}

 

129.{90} That the sannyas waiting list for 1990-91 is as follows:

 

          Ayodhyapati das - one year           Prabhupada das - two years

          Siddhartha das - four years

     Mahavisnu das (England) - one year

     Raghubhir das - two years

 

130.{90} That the Philosophical Research Group shall research the  topic of siksha guru and present their research for  discussion at the 1991 Annual Meeting.{90}

 

131.{90} That all leaders in ISKCON should clearly present the letter  and spirit of the Society's rules and policies to those  under their authority, and must clearly qualify any  differing viewpoint as their own personal opinion.{90}

 

132. That all Continental Committees should establish a Srila  Prabhupada Centennial Committee to plan the celebrations in  their local areas for the glorification of Srila Prabhupada's 100th Anniversary.  Padayatra shall concentrate its efforts  on the glorification of Srila Prabhupada in coordination  with these Committees.  Resolution 90-85 above, which  established an international committee, is hereby repealed  and replaced by this Resolution.{90}