ISKCON GOVERNING BODY COMMISSION SOCIETY

Registration Number S/74662 under the West Bengal Societies Registration Act, 1961 P.O. Shree Mayapur Dham, Dist. Nadia, West Bengal 741313 https://gbc.iskcon.org/

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

SRI MAYAPUR DHAM, MARCH 3 - 12, 2019

Go to 2019 Zonal Assignments

Section 200: Governing Body Commission

202.3 Executive Committee of the GBC Body

GBC EC Service Description Research — 2019

[Action order]

(Proposed by the GBC EC)

A committee consisting of the Executive Secretariat, Devakinandan Das (General Counsel), and

Radha Krsna Das, is hereby formed to deal with the service description of the GBC Executive Committee, with the possible timeline for the 2019 Midterm General Meeting, or latest by the 2020 Annual General Meeting.

204.3 GBC Meetings

Dates For 2020 GBC Annual General Meeting — 2019

[Action order]
Feb 07		Org Dev Nityananda Trayodasi
Feb 08		Org Dev
Feb 09		Org Dev
Feb 10		Org Dev / EC
Feb 11		GBC Plenary on Org Dev Matters
Feb 12		GBC Plenary
Feb 13		ISKCON Leadership Sanga (ILS)
Feb 14		ILS
Feb 15		GBC Plenary ILS Continues
Feb 16		GBC Plenary ILS Continues
Feb 17		GBC Plenary ILS Continues
Feb 18		GBC Plenary/ILS (half day) ILS Continues
Feb 19		ILS
Feb 20		GBC Plenary
Feb 21		GBC Plenary
Feb 22		GBC Plenary

Feb 23-26 Kirtan Mela

Feb 27- Mar 05 Navadvipa Mandala Parikrama

March 09 Sri Gaura Purnima

205.2 GBC Zones, Deployment & Zonal Configuration

Identifying More GBC Areas -- 2019

[Administrative order]

(Proposed and Sponsored by the GBC Organizational Development Committee)

Whereas the GBC wishes to adopt a more rational, effective approach to the deploying of its Commissioners, as indicated in the “Directional Statement” 2015 resolution;

Whereas the first step requires identifying coherent “GBC Areas” (independently from considerations on who may be assigned there at present);

Whereas such GBC Areas should be based on criteria such as geographical contiguity, size and nature of ISKCON presence, size of the local population, potential for expansion, local culture (language, religion, etc.);

Whereas, following on from the thirteen GBC areas created at the 2018 Midterm General Meeting, the below GBC Areas fulfill the above general guidelines and characteristics

Resolved:

The following territories are accepted as “GBC Areas”:

14. Japan, South Korea and North Korea.

15. China (including Hong Kong, Macau & Taiwan) and Philippines.

16. South East Asia (including Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos).

17. Oceania (Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Fiji and the rest of Oceania), Indonesia and East Timor.

The configuration of a “GBC Area” can be modified by a simple majority vote by the GBC.

206.2 GBC Proposals, Resolutions and Voting

Rule of Order Regarding Sponsorship of Proposals — 2019

[Rule of Order]

(Proposed by Bhaktarupa Das and sponsored by Bhanu Swami and Guru Prasad Swami)

Whereas existing ministries and standing committees often need to approach GBC members to sponsor proposals on matters within their area of responsibility and expertise, which may create a bureaucratic burden on them.

Resolved:

That duly constituted ISKCON ministries and standing committees may submit proposals for consideration by the GBC Body for matters directly within their mandate. If there is any question raised regarding whether a submitted proposal is actually within the mandate of the submitting ISKCON ministry or standing committee, then the GBC Deputies’ Executive in conjunction with the GBC Executive Committee will decide.

Section 300: ISKCON

301.7 ISKCON Members

Letter of Appreciation to Tamohara Das — 2019

[Vote of thanks]

Dear Tamohara Prabhu,

Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

We hereby accept your letter of resignation with immense gratitude for your service to the GBC Body.

Beginning with your contributions to developing and maintaining the Child Protection Office as its director, you have steadily accepted your service as a leader in ISKCON with integrity and dedication.

Your educational background, your insights, and your focus on serving the devotees of Srila Prabhupada's ISKCON have brought so much benefit to our society. In addition, your balance of understanding and compassion along with firm adherence to Srila Prabhupada's instructions were particularly highlighted during your tenure as the GBC Chairman.

Although we regret that we will no longer have your association on the GBC Body, we pray that you will continue with great success in your many services to Srila Prabhupada for years to come.

On behalf of the GBC Body, we respectfully offer you the title of GBC Emeritus with gratitude for your dedicated service to Srila Prabhupada and his International Society for Krishna Consciousness.

Thank you very much.

Hare Krsna,

Your servants,

Madhu Sevita Das

Bhaktivaibhava Swami

Ramai Swami

(GBC Executive Committee, on behalf of the GBC Body)

301.7 ISKCON Members

Letter of Appreciation to Sivarama Swami — 2019

[Vote of thanks]

Dear Sivarama Maharaja,

Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

It is impossible to put into words your contributions to the GBC Body in over three decades of service.

We have leaders who are expert managers and we have leaders who are deeply immersed in Krsna consciousness, thus bringing another sort of expertise to management. You, however, are that very rare Vaisnava who is a brilliant manager yet deeply Krsna conscious, committed to your service in Srila Prabhupada's mission yet conscious of the needs of others, philosophically astute, yet humorous and lighthearted.

There is scarcely a committee or project that has not benefitted from your input. And whenever a new topic arises, yours is often the first input we seek out.

It is an understatement to say that a vacancy will be felt on the GBC Body in light of your retirement. We pray that after taking time to focus on recuperating your health, you will consider giving us your association again on the GBC Body.

Thank you very much, Maharaja, for your association, wisdom, friendship, and dedication.

Hare Krsna,

Your servants,

Madhu Sevita Das

Bhaktivaibhava Swami

Ramai Swami

(GBC Executive Committee, on behalf of the GBC Body)

301.7 ISKCON Members

Letter of Appreciation to Guru Gauranga Das — 2019

Dear Guru Gauranga Prabhu,

Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

On behalf of the GBC Body, we respectfully offer you the title of GBC Emeritus with gratitude and appreciation for your years of contributions and services to ISKCON and dedication to Srila Prabhupada.

You pioneered Krishna consciousness and laid the foundation for ISKCON’s future growth in Switzerland in 1971, later establishing ISKCON as a legally recognized Swiss Church foundation.

Thereafter, you organized Srila Prabhupada’s official reception by the Government of Geneva and, in 1978, organized the first public Rathayatra in a major European city outside the UK.

Later, you successfully resisted defamatory remarks (libel) made by the Catholic Church against the Hare Krishna movement in Switzerland, and thereby defended the position of ISKCON as a bona fide spiritual organization.

You were appointed to the GBC Body in 1986, and served as the first GBC Minister of Justice. During your tenure, you established ISKCON’s first Conflict Resolution Procedures (CRP).

Recently, you worked tirelessly to lead the legal team that successfully sued to prevent the sale of the Sri Sri Radha-Govinda Temple in New York and restored it to its rightful place in ISKCON.

We thank you very much for your past and present services that have brought much benefit and protection to our society.

Your servants,

Madhu Sevita Das

Bhaktivaibhava Swami

Ramai Swami

(GBC Executive Committee, on behalf of the GBC Body)

304.2 ISKCON Immovable Properties

Sale of the Gaura Mandala Temple, Rome — 2019 [Action order]

(Proposed by Harikirtan Das and sponsored by Madhu Sevita Das and Hrdaya Caitanya Das)

Whereas there have been 20 years of litigation for the purpose of recovering the Gaura Mandala Property from a splinter group;

Whereas there is an executive court order that allows ISKCON to take possession of the abovementioned property;

Whereas Sri Panca Tattva is kept in a most condemnable situation, and there are two very valid alternatives for Their worship and care;

Whereas there is an opportunity to acquire a better and safer place for the preaching in the Rome area:

Resolved:

The GBC body gives permission to the Rome Temple President and the local GBC, in conjunction with the Deity Ministry, to sell the Gaura Mandala property when the courts allow, buy a new temple property for Rome, and relocate the Panca Tattva to a more suitable environment.

This is provisional on the Property Trustees providing a signed approval giving reasons for the sale to the ISKCON Property Office.

306.2 ISKCON International Projects

Ratification of the Mayapur Executive Board (MEB) — 2019 [Action order]

(Proposed and Sponsored by Anuttama Das)

Resolved:

The Governing Body Commission recognizes the following GBC members as GBC Representatives for the Mayapur Project. They are also authorized as the GBC representatives serving on the Mayapur Executive Board (MEB):

Jayapataka Swami

Gopal Krsna Goswami

Bhakti Charu Swami

Bhakti Purusottama Swami

Anuttama Das

Hrdaya Caitanya Das

GBC Executive Chairman (ex-officio)

The GBC also recognizes the three ISKCON India Bureau members serving on the MEB. As of March 12, 2019 they are:

Basu Ghosh Das

Devakinandan Das

Dayaram Das

306.2 ISKCON International Projects

GBC-ISKCON India Bureau Mayapur Agreement — 2019

[Action order]

Resolved:

The GBC seeks to establish a legally-binding agreement between the GBC and the ISKCON India Bureau regarding the management and ownership of the Mayapur Project, including the Temple of Vedic Planetarium.

The GBC directs the Mayapur Executive Board, with the assistance of other senior leaders of their choice, to dialogue with the Bureau to achieve this legally-binding agreement with regular reporting starting at the 2019 Midterm General Meeting.

307.4 ISKCON — other

Ban of 'One Time Use' Plastic — 2019

[Guideline]

(Proposed by Hrdaya Caitanya Das, sponsored by him and Devamrita Swami)

Whereas plastic is often used once-off and then thrown away;

Whereas the lifetime of plastic varies from 50 years to more than 1000 years;

Whereas plastic contaminates mother earth and her inhabitants;

Whereas many ISKCON temples use plastic and foam cups, plates, spoons, water bottles, mahaprasadam packages, plastic bags, etc., once-off and then discard them despite there being biodegradable alternatives;

Whereas Srila Prabhupada states that first you become conscious and then you become Krishna conscious;

Whereas there is an increasing awareness in the general public about such issues and ISKCON should set a proper example:

Resolved:

That ISKCON centres and members are strongly encouraged to not use single-use plastic.

Section 400: ISKCON Ministries and Committees

406.2 Ministry of Cow Protection and Agriculture

Milk from Protected Cows — 2019

[Guideline]

(Proposed by Hrdaya Caitanya Das, sponsored by him and Devamrita Swami)

Whereas the current commercial dairy systems of the world in which the older cows, practically all bulls, young and old, and most female calves are slaughtered is thoroughly condemned and abhorrent;

Whereas Srila Prabhupada wrote in this regard: “These greatly sinful acts are responsible for all the troubles in present society.” (SB 1.17.3 Purport);

Whereas ISKCON is established for more than 50 years and has matured to a stage where it is possible to establish alternative supplies of “ahimsa milk” or dairy from farms where all cows and bulls are protected for life;

Whereas ISKCON's 6^th purpose is “to bring the members closer together for the purpose of teaching a simpler and more natural way of life”;

Whereas Srila Prabhupada desired that urban ISKCON centers should be connected to rural ISKCON farming communities where devotees would produce food and milk to supply the urban centers;

Whereas Srila Prabhupada stated that we should keep the cows very happy and without fear and they will produce double quantity of milk;

Whereas several ISKCON projects have demonstrated the feasibility of supplying ahimsa milk;

Whereas ISKCON's Ministry for Agriculture and Cow Protection is prepared to support the development of ahimsa dairy;

Whereas in ISKCON many installed Deities do not get milk from slaughter-free cows;

Whereas continuing ISKCON's indirect support of the cow slaughter industry by consuming dairy from this industry, if based solely on financial reasons, calls into question the sincerity of ISKCON's commitment to cow protection:

Resolved:

By Janmastami 2022 all ISKCON centers should develop a plan whereby all milk and milk products — butter, ghee, yogurt etc. — offered to the deities are procured from protected cows. The centers may approach the International Ministry of Cow Protection for assistance.

406.4 Ministry of Cow Protection and Agriculture

ISKCON Ministry for Cow Protection and Agriculture Standing Annual Presentation to the GBC Body — 2019

[Rule of Order]

(Proposed by Kalakantha Das, and sponsored by Praghosa Das and Hrdaya Caitanya Das)

Whereas when cow protection supports brahminical culture, then, as per the instructions of our Founder-Acarya, it will bring prosperity to ISKCON and its members;

Whereas it is often seen that in projects where cow protection and agricultural practices are below the minimum standards allowed in ISKCON Law, it is a result of zonal and local management not knowing the standards;

Whereas GBC members and other leaders of ISKCON may not have the time to learn appropriate standards for ISKCON farms;

Whereas although the maintenance of proper standards is the responsibility of the local managers, ultimately it is the responsibility of the zonal management to make sure that the local managers are fulfilling their responsibilities;

Whereas other primary activities of ISKCON such as book distribution and Deity worship have standing annual presentation time at the AGM, and discussion of ISKCON’s 6^th purpose with a focus on cow protection and agriculture is similarly worthy of the GBC Body’s attention and awareness:

Resolved:

Each year at the AGM in Mayapur, the ISKCON Ministry for Cow Protection and Agriculture will be allocated 30 minutes at the discretion of the EC to present a report on cow protection and agriculture in ISKCON, particularly with a focus on regional developments on standards and certificates of readiness.

406.4 Ministry of Cow Protection and Agriculture

Cow protection Certificate of Readiness — 2019

[Governing Law]

(Proposed by Kalakantha Das, and sponsored by Niranjana Swami and Praghosa Das)

Whereas Srila Prabhupada has stated, “Progressive human civilization is based on brahminical culture, God consciousness and protection of cows.” [ SB1.19.3]

Whereas according to Srila Prabhupada’s instructions a minimum standard for Cow Protection should be maintained in ISKCON (Ratified in ISKCON Law 507 of 1999);

Whereas there are currently cows and bulls that are not being cared for properly;

Whereas it is unacceptable that ISKCON centres start cow protection programs without enough preparation or knowledge of cow protection and its connection with agriculture and the reasons for protecting cows and bulls, which increases the burden on ISKCON, its members and the GBC body;

Whereas the ISKCON Ministry for Cow Protection and Agriculture has the capacity to assess the ability of an ISKCON centre to protect cows and understand its connection with agriculture;

Whereas cow protection initiatives are started without enough consideration for their ongoing maintenance;

Whereas there are several cow protection initiatives that are of a questionable nature:

Resolved:

In order to start a cow protection project that will be accredited within ISKCON and accepted as an ISKCON supported project, a “Cow protection Certificate of Readiness” needs to be obtained.

The following are the requirements for obtaining such a certificate, which will allow new cow protection projects to commence their operations:

1. The GBC Minimum Cow protection Standards ISKCON Law 507(1999) needs to be read and fully understood before applying for the certificate.

2. An exam must be taken and passed. The questions in the exam will be based on the content of Law 507.

3. A well-thought-out business plan with the signature of the GBC member must be presented to the Ministry of Cow Protection and Agriculture.

Details regarding the content that must be addressed in the business plan are provided below in order to assist in its preparation:

Centers may not make any commitments or agreements regarding procuring and/or acquiring cows until the “Cow Protection Certificate of Readiness” is granted. The “Certificate of Readiness” applies only to an ISKCON registered property to which it is granted and is not a generic permanent approval.

The Certificate of Readiness is valid for up to 180 days beyond the initial scheduled acquisition date. If the 180-day period has elapsed without the set up being completed, the center will be reassessed by the ISKCON Ministry for Cow protection and Agriculture for a new Certificate of Readiness to be issued.

The Cow protection Certificate of Readiness will be assessed by a local representative (from the temple concerned); the local GBC, regional leadership (which may include a representative from the National Council or RGB, etc.); and an ISKCON Cow protection and Agriculture (IMCPA) accredited representative. The GBC Executive Committee will be informed of the assessment outcome.

The initial contact:

The centre wanting to commence a Cow protection Program makes an application via the IMCPA’s website. After receiving this application which includes a business plan signed by the local GBC, IMCPA contacts local GBC and regional authorities to assess the viability of the application by their business plan and test. If process shows the centre has made a proper analysis of requirements for Cow protection which includes agriculture and is moving in the right direction regarding the proper allocation resources, etc. for cow protection, then the first stage approval is given. This then enables the temple to make arrangements to acquire cows and commence fund-raising, etc.

The second and final stage will be assessed based on the findings of a site visit by an IMCPA accredited representative, or comprehensive consultation with concerned devotees.

407.6 ISKCON Deity Worship Ministry

Formal Acceptance of Deity Ministry Position Papers — 2019 [Position statement]

(Proposed by Nrsimha Kavaca Das and sponsored by Bhanu Swami and Praghosa Das)

Whereas there are different opinions on whether Srimati Radharani’s feet may be shown in public and whether the general public can participate in the bathing of temple deities on festival days;

Whereas the ISKCON Deity Worship Ministry has prepared position papers establishing uniform policies on these matters:

Resolved:

The two position papers, “ISKCON Temple Abhisekas” and “Showing Radharani’s Lotus Feet” are accepted as ISKCON’s official position on these topics

413.1 Ministry of Sannyasa Services

Amendment to ISKCON Ministry of Sannyasa Services Policies Manual — 2019

[Action order]

(Proposed by Prahladananda Swami and Sponsored by him and Bhakti Caitanya Swami)

Whereas changes to the ISKCON Ministry of Sannyasa Services' Policy Manual must be approved by the GBC;

Whereas there is a need to clarify the appeal process concerning decisions made by the Sannyasa Standing Committee:

Resolved:

That the ISKCON Ministry of Sannyasa Services' Policy Manual appeal process section will now read:

If the sannyasi wishes to appeal a decision, he has six months to do so. The sannyasi must first present his appeal to the GBC Executive Committee. The sannyasi's appeal must be made in writing and state all evidence and reasoning why the decision should be overturned or modified. The sannyasi should also send a copy of his appeal to the Sannyasa Standing Committee. If a majority of the GBC Executive Committee agrees, the appeal will be presented to the GBC Body. A decision concerning an appeal will be made by a majority vote of the GBC Body. However, during any appeal, the original decision remains in effect. A sannyasi who does not abide by the decision shall be subjected to penalties according to ISKCON Law.

Grounds for appeal can be based on:

1. an error in applying the legal principles or rules for arriving at the decision (e.g., incorrect standard of proof applied) or

2. an error in fact (e.g. the facts were incorrectly understood by the decision-maker) or

3. on the grounds of procedural irregularity (e.g. inadmissible evidence such as hearsay evidence was accepted by the decision maker) or

4. severity of sentencing (as referenced in section six – Disciplinary Steps – of the Sannyasa Policy Manual.)

421.1 Devotee Care Committee

Global Devotee Care Course Education — 2019 [Guideline]

(Proposed by Gauranga Das and sponsored by Anuttama Das and Revati Raman Das)

Whereas caring for devotees (vaisnava-seva) is one of the three cardinal principles given by Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu;

Whereas Srila Prabhupada was himself a personification of devotee care (example, he built the Lotus Building before the Mayapur temple to facilitate devotees);

Whereas there is benefit to ISKCON to develop devotee communities that are spiritually vibrant and materially stable;

Whereas, often devotees leave or develop bitterness towards the movement due to inadequate devotee care:

Resolved:

That the GBC encourages all ISKCON Temples to hold the four-day Devotee Care Course entitled,

“Embedding Care in Krishna Conscious Communities” for all caregivers and administrators.

The course can be conducted in 24 hours:

spread over 8 days of 3 hours each or two weekends of 6 hours per day or any other permutation or combination that suits the local yatras.

423.3 Vaisnava Calendar Committee

Calendar updates: Necessary adjustments to the observances shown on ISKCON calendars — 2019

[Statement]

(proposed by GBC Vaisnava Calendar Committee and sponsored by Bhanu Swami and Hrdaya Caitanya Das)

Whereas ISKCON Calendar calculations were originally derived from the Gaudiya Panjika published by the Chaitanya Math in Mayapur;

Whereas it has come to the attention of the committee that there are two observances, originally taken from that source that are incorrect and need adjustment:

According to the research of the committee, the observance of "Lalita Sasti" two days before Radhastami appears to be based on the Bengali tradition of the appearance of the manifestation of Durga named "Lalita". The Gaudiya Panjika does not list appearance days for any of the sakhis of Srimati Radharani. According to Radha Krishna Ganodesa Dipika by Srila Rupa Goswami, Lalita Sakhi actually appeared twenty seven days before Radha:

tatradya lalita-devi syad astasu variyasi priya-sakhya bhavej jyestha sapta vimsati-vasaraih||79||

Among the eight principal sakhis, Lalita is the best. She is older than Radha by twenty-seven days.

Also, according to research, the observance of "the appearance of Radha Kund" on the astami of the dark fortnight of Karttik month is incorrect and the event should be observed on Caitra Purnima.

And whereas, ISKCON devotees, encouraged by the BBT Trustees, have recently started major book distribution programs centered around Bhadra Purnima, and it would be appropriate to add this observance to the ISKCON calendar:

Resolved:

Therefore, the GBC Body endorses the recommendation of the GBC Vaisnava Calendar Committee that it may proceed as follows:

1. That the observance of "Lalita Sasti" be removed from the calendar.

2. That the observance of the "Appearance of Radhakund" be shifted to Caitra Purnima.

3. That the observance of Bhadra Purnima be added to the calendar.

426.15 Legal Development Committee

Formal Recognition of Legal Development Committee — 2019 [Administrative order]

(proposed by Sesa Das and sponsored by him and Prahladananda Swami)

Whereas ISKCON requires common standards, policies, and procedures for managing investigations of misconduct or abuse, in instituting corrective and rehabilitative consequences for offenders, as well as in restorative justice for all involved when guilt is established;

Whereas ISKCON requires policies and processes to address disputes and dispute resolutions that are based on equity, impartiality, fairness, and timeliness, and these should be of such caliber that all ISKCON entities will honor and utilize them;

Whereas internal ISKCON investigations, in principle, are based on the enforcement of ecclesiastical standards and acceptable moral and ethical behavior of ISKCON devotees, and as such they will not supersede any secular criminal investigations;

Whereas there is a need to encourage respectful, honest and ethical behavior among ISKCON members;

Whereas a judicial system in ISKCON should promote a feeling of confidence and well-being in its members, it should seek to spiritually rehabilitate offenders wherever possible, and it should serve to protect devotees from harm, restore faith and well-being in those offended, and create in the society an environment of high spiritual integrity:

Resolved:

That the GBC Body hereby recognizes that an “ISKCON Legal Development Committee” has been created by the ISKCON Ministry of Justice and has been delegated the following responsibilities:

1. To develop and confirm all judicial policies and procedures with the GBC Body to effectively address transgressions and misconduct of ISKCON members.

2. To develop judicial policies and procedures for effectively dealing with disputes and dispute resolution when ISKCON Resolve is unable to resolve the problem. This includes reestablishing the ISKCON Dispute Resolution Office (IDRO).

3. To create a team of trained and qualified investigators, including those who speak languages other than English, that will be available for deployment as needed.

4. To create a team of trained and qualified judges, including those who speak languages other than English, that will be available to deal with matters as needed.

5. To create training programs (online and classroom courses) for investigators and judges.

6. To set up a system to mentor new investigators and judges and to monitor performance of investigators and judges on an ongoing basis.

7. To keep confidential records of all cases in a secure environment.

8. To coordinate its efforts with the GBC Body and all ISKCON Ministries and Committees.

9. To create a website that will provide resources and information to ISKCON devotees and ISKCON entities regarding ISKCON judicial matters.

Committee Members:

Chair: Prahladananda Swami, GBC, Minister, Sannyasa Ministry

Vice Chair: Champakalata Dasi, Attorney (South Africa) and Director of the ISKCON Office for Prevention of Leadership Misconduct

Devakinandana Das: Attorney (Singapore), Director ISKCON Legal Office

Hansarupa Das: Professional investigator, former Director of ISKCON Ethics, Standards and

Compliance Office (Mayapur), Temple President, ISKCON Brooklyn

Kamlesh Krishna Das: Child Protection Professional, Director, ISKCON Child Protection Office

Praharana Dasi: Professional Social Worker (MSW), Chair, North America GBC Leader Sexual Misconduct Committee

Radha Dasi: Attorney (USA), Vaishnavi Minister, member of North American GBC Leader Sexual Misconduct Committee

Sesa Das: Attorney (USA); GBC, Minister, ISKCON Ministry of Justice

Vraja Vihari Das: Dispute resolution professional, Director ISKCON Resolve

This resolution and the committee so created do not supersede the existence, duties, policies or independent status of the ISKCON International Child Protection Office.

429.2 Law Book Committee

Law Book — Sections — 2019

[Rule of order]

(Proposed by Nrsimha Kavaca Das and sponsored by Madhu Sevita Das and Praghosa Das)

Whereas the current Law Book Committee has been working to make the body of GBC resolutions more accessible to the members of ISKCON;

Whereas this has resulted in the development of a web-based database;

Whereas in order to focus the search feature of the database the search criteria must be very specific;

Whereas the resolutions have been sorted into clearly defined categories;

Whereas the proposed sections are based on the chapters of the 1996 printed Law Book;

Whereas the following was unanimously passed by the GBC at the AGM in 2016 but not recorded:

Resolved:

All proposals and resolutions must be sorted into the following sections:

100 – Srila Prabhupada

200 – Governing Body Commission

300 – International Society for Krishna Consciousness

400 – ISKCON Ministries and Committees

500 – Deputies, GDOs and Zonal Supervisors

600 – ISKCON spiritual leadership

700 – Gurus and disciples

800 – Appointments

900 – Financial and legal

2000 – Appendices

429.2 Law Book Committee

Law Book — Categories — 2019

[Rule of order]

(Proposed by Nrsimha Kavaca Das and Sponsored by Madhu Sevita Das and Praghosa Das)

Whereas the categories use to classify resolutions passed by the GBC have evolved over time, as can be seen by the following:

1987:

All resolutions be categorized as a rule of order, law, or provisional order at the time of passing.

1997:

That all GBC resolutions shall be categorized as one of the following:

a. Action Order (administrative, appointment, action oriented, directive or provisional orders, plus send to or form a committee, etc. that is temporary in nature and expires on completion) b. GBC Rule of Order (permanent in nature) c. ISKCON Law (permanent in nature)

d. ISKCON Vision and Goal (time bound) (future planning, strategies, standing objectives which push on the preaching of the Society and position papers, statements of appreciation, etc. that are permanent in nature), and

e. Guideline (behavior or action for ISKCON).

2010:

The following terms, when used as descriptions of the intent of GBC Resolutions and included in the language of the resolution when passed by the Body, shall henceforward have the following meanings:

1. LAW: A statement of principle applicable permanently to the whole of ISKCON.

1. GUIDELINE: A statement of principle recommended to be adopted by the whole of ISKCON.

2. RULE OF ORDER: A rule governing the internal functioning of the GBC Body. The Rules of Order as a whole also form a default set of rules for the internal functioning of other ISKCON administrative bodies, to be followed as applicable to their various circumstances, unless the other body has specifically resolved that it shall function differently.

Laws, Guidelines, and Rules of Order, in order to have the effect of Laws, Guidelines, and Rules of Order as described in these definitions, must be declared as such within the language of the resolution when passed by the GBC Body. The GBC Executive Committee shall cause updated compilations of all current Laws, Guidelines, and Rules of Order to be maintained and regularly made available to the society.

Other declarations of categories shall be optional, and the intent of a resolution shall be determined by the wording of the resolution itself and not by the category declared.

Whereas the existing categorizations of GBC resolutions have been found to be inadequate, and to some degree inappropriate, for the present functioning of the GBC;

Whereas the intent of the above resolutions – to help minimize confusion and improve the resolutions’ usability – was partly accomplished, it has been found that not all resolutions fit neatly into one of these categories, and some mis-categorizations have increased confusion rather than reducing it;

Whereas a better policy will be to let the resolution speak for itself, with optional categorization included in the resolution wording when such is deemed helpful to convey the intent of the resolution;

Whereas for those resolutions that establish enduring principles, the GBC should provide standard definitions for the category terms;

Whereas the GBC directed the current ISKCON Law Book Committee to keep as much of the work of the previous committee as possible, and;

Whereas the following was unanimously passed by the GBC at the AGM in 2016 but not recorded.

Resolved:

The following categories must be used to define any proposal being presented to the GBC Body to describe the intent of the proposal.

This language which will be included in the final resolution shall henceforward have the following meanings:

1. Constitutional principles

Enduring principles based on Prabhupada's teachings on how ISKCON should be organized.

Enduring features of ISKCON as per Prabhupada's teachings.

2. Governing laws:

Rules governing the practical functioning of ISKCON which are globally applicable.

3. Statutory regulations:

The Memorandum and Articles of Association which govern the internal functioning of the ISKCON GBC Society West Bengal.

4. Rules of order:

Procedures for the functioning of the GBC Body.

5. Administrative guidelines:

Detailed description of the practical application of laws. Includes Administrative Orders, Action Orders, Position Papers and Statements.

a. Administrative order:

Orders by which an administrative wing or branch of ISKCON with specific functions is created. E.g. a ministry or other functional unit that has an existence beyond the scope of the individuals performing the task.

b. Action order

A directive to a specific individual or group of individuals to perform a time bound task. c. Position statements

Considered conclusions of the Body on particular subject matters.

d. Statements

Declarations setting forth decisions of the Body.

e. Guidelines

Guidance relative to setting standards or determining a course of action. f. Votes of thanks

Statements of appreciation or recognition of outstanding service or contributions to ISKCON.

429.2 Law Book Committee

Law Book — One Category per Resolution — 2019

[Rule of order]

(Proposed by Nrsimha Kavaca Das and sponsored by Madhu Sevita Das and Praghosa Das)

Whereas the current Law Book Committee has been working to make the body of GBC resolutions more accessible to the members of ISKCON;

Whereas this has resulted in the development of a web-based database;

Whereas in order to focus the search feature of the database the search criteria must be very specific;

Whereas resolutions that have more than one category are more difficult to enter and refine the search.

Resolved:

All proposals shall only include one category as defined in the above resolution “Lawbook —

Categories — 2019.”

For proposal concepts that require more than one category, e.g. “Action order,” “ISKCON law,” etc., each section requiring its own category must be presented as a separate proposal.

429.2 Law Book Committee

Law Book — Guru Name Abbreviations — 2019

[Rule of order]

(Proposed by Nrsimha Kavaca Das and sponsored by Madhu Sevita Das and Praghosa Das)

Whereas as ISKCON expands and an ever-increasing number of devotees get initiated it is common that many devotees have the same name;

Whereas Srila Prabhupada has stated that the identity of a person can be understood by who their father is;

Whereas there is a need to be able to clearly identify which devotee(s) a resolution is referring to;

Whereas such identification will assist the search feature of the Law Book Database;

Whereas such a list is already in existence and has been used by the PAMHO email service for many years:

Resolved:

Any devotees referred to in any proposal to the GBC will be identified by adding the abbreviation of their spiritual master’s name after their initiated name.

The Guru Services Committee is directed to maintain this list and generate abbreviations for new initiating spiritual masters.

The following list is accepted as the standardized list of abbreviations for all past and current ISKCON gurus:

A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada	(ACBSP)
Atmanivedana Swami	(AVS)
Bhakti Bhrnga Govinda Swami	(BBGS)
Bhakti Bhusana Swami	(BBS)
Bhakti Caitanya Swami	(BCAIS)
Bhakti Charu Swami	(BCS)
Bhakti Dhira Damodara Swami	(BDDS)
Bhagavan Das	(BGD)
Bhavananda Das	(BG)
Bhakti Gaurava Narayana Swami	(BGNS)
Bhakti Gauravani Goswami	(BGVG)
Bhurijana Das	(BJD)
Bir Krishna Das Goswami	(BKG)
Bhaktimarga Swami	(BMS)
Bhakti Raghava Swami	(BRS)
Bhakti Svarupa Damodara Swami	(BSDS)

Bhakti Sundar Goswami	(BSG)
Bhakti Tirtha Swami	(BTS)
Bhakti Vijnana Goswami	(BVG)
Bhakti Vikasa Swami	(BVKS)
Bhakti Vaidurya Madhava Swami	(BVMD)
Bhakti Visrambha Madhava Swami	(BVMS)
Bhakti Vrajendranandana Swami	(BVNS)
Bhaktividya Purna Swami	(BVPS)
Bhaktivaibhava Swami	(BVS)
Bhaktivyasa Tirtha Swami	(BVTS)
Bhakti Vighna Vinasa Narasimha Swami	(BVVNS)
Caitanya Candra Caran Das	(CCCD)
Caitanya Candra Das	(CCD)
Caru Das	(CD)
Candra Mukha Swami	(CMKS)
Candramauli Swami	(CMS)
Devamrita Swami	(DAS)
Dhanurdhara Swami	(DDS)
Danavir Goswami	(DG)
Druktakarma Das	(DKD)
Dhanvantari Swami	(DVS)
Gunagrahi Das Goswami	(GDG)
Giridhari Swami	(GDS)
Gour Govinda Swami	(GGS)
Gopal Krishna Goswami	(GKG)
Guru Prasad Swami	(GPS)
Giriraja Swami	(GRS)
Ganapati Swami	(GS)
Hrdayananda Das Goswami	(HDG)
Harikesa Das	(HKS)
Hanumatpresaka Swami	(HPS)
Indradyumna Swami	(IDS)
Isvara Swami	(IS)
Jayadvaita Swami	(JAS)
Jagadish Das	(JDG)
Janananda Goswami	(JG)
Jivananda Das	(JND)
Jayapataka Swami	(JPS)
Kesava Bharati Das Goswami	(KBG)
Kavicandra Swami	(KCS)
Krsna Das Swami	(KDS)
Kalakantha Das	(KKD)
Kadamba Kanana Swami	(KKS)
Kripamoya Das	(KMD)
Kratu Das	(KRD)

Krishna Kshetra Swami	(KRKS)
Lokanath Swami	(LOK)
Matsya Avatara Das	(MAD)
Mahaman Das	(MMD)
Mahatma Das	(MD)
Mukunda Goswami	(MG)
Manonatha Das	(MND)
Madhusevita Das	(MSD)
Mahavisnu Goswami	(MVG)
Mahavishnu Swami	(MVS)
Niranjana Swami	(NRS)
Navayogendra Swami	(NYS)
Prahladananda Swami	(PAS)
Purnacandra Goswami	(PCD)
Paramananda Das	(PD)
Prithu Das	(PDA)
Param Gati Das	(PGS)
Partha Sarathi Das Goswami	(PSDG)
Purusatraya Swami	(PTS)
Prabhavisnu Das	(PVS)
Radha Govinda Swami	(RGS)
Radhanath Swami	(RNS)
Romapada Swami	(RPS)
Rohini Suta Das	(RSD)
Rtadhvaja Swami	(RTS)
Ravindra Svarupa Das	(RVSD)
Sankarshan Das	(SDA)
Satyadeva Das	(SDD)
Satsvarupa Das Goswami	(SDG)
Sridhar Swami	(SDHS)
Suresvara Das	(SED)
Smita Krsna Swami	(SKS)
Sacinandana Swami	(SNS)
Somaka Swami	(SOS)
Sivarama Swami	(SRS)
Suhotra Swami	(SS)
Subhag Swami	(SSM)
Tamal Krishna Goswami	(TKG)
Trivikrama Swami	(TVS)
Virabahu Das	(VBD)
Vipramukhya Swami	(VMS)
Varsana Swami	(VS)
Vaisesika Das	(VSD)
Vegavan Das	(VVD)
Vedavyasapriya Swami	(VVPS)

429.2 Law Book Committee

Law Book — Content Layout — 2019

[Rule of order]

(Proposed by Nrsimha Kavaca Das and Sponsored by Madhu Sevita Das and Praghosa Das)

Whereas entering data into the Law Book Database is very time consuming and will be greatly simplified if the content and structure of proposals and resolutions match the database data entry fields;

Whereas there are many resolutions that have titles that do not assist the user in understanding the content of the resolution, such as in 2001 a proposal was submitted named, “Show cause notice”. The proposal was actually informing the GBC that a show cause notice relating to Adridharan Das was pending before the high court. This is not apparent from the title.

Whereas crafting ISKCON legislation is often a very detailed and time-consuming task and if

ISKCON’s legislators have sufficient information on hand they will gain a deeper understanding of the thought process and background that led to such resolutions being drafted and passed;

Resolved:

All proposals and resolutions must include the following data fields in the order as listed below: Section

Title

Year

Meeting

(Proposed and Sponsored by the SAC)

Resolved:

That the GBC accepts the conclusion and recommendation as found on page 39 of the SAC’s Patiguru paper.

Section 600: ISKCON spiritual leadership

605.1 ISKCON Spiritual leadership — other

GBC College for Leadership Development Trustees — 2019

[Action order]

(Proposed and Sponsored by the GBC Organizational Development Committee)

The following devotees are voted on as Trustees for the GBC College for Leadership Development:

Gopal Krishna Goswami

Bhakti Charu Swami

Rupanuga Das (BCS)

Devakinandan Das (MVG)

Gauranga Das (RNS)

Bal Govinda Das (RNS)

Kaunteya Das (JPS)

Section 700: Gurus and Disciples

701.2 ISKCON Spiritual Masters

Conditions for Second-generation Diksa-gurus — 2019

[Governing law]

Whereas ISKCON Law 7.3.2 now reads:

“As taught by Srila Prabhupada, the etiquette of not initiating in the presence of one's diksaguru will be upheld in ISKCON. However, Srila Prabhupada and historical precedents also teach us that disciples may sometimes initiate in the physical presence of their diksa-gurus, if so directed by them. In such a case, the disciple should go through the normal procedure for commencing the service of diksa-guru (7.4.1).

Resolved:

ISKCON Law 7.3.2 is amended to read as follows:

As taught by Srila Prabhupada, the etiquette of not initiating in the presence of one's diksa-guru will be upheld in ISKCON. However historical precedents also teach us that disciples may sometimes, in exceptional cases, initiate in the physical presence of their diksa-gurus.

The GBC clarifies that an individual devotee taking up the service of diksa-guru in the physical presence of their guru may be allowed as an exception when the following conditions are met. The Guru Services Committee will confirm that the candidate for becoming a second generation guru has met all these conditions:

Mandatory Conditions:

1. The candidate must have been practicing Krishna consciousness for not less than 25 years

2. The candidate’s diksa-guru has affirmed in writing to the GBC Body that he agrees the candidate is suitable for this service and that he gives his blessings

3. A letter of approval for the candidate to take up the role of diksa-guru has been received from the Regional Council, or if none exists, the National Council, Area Council or, if none of the above exists, the GBC member of that area where the candidate primarily serves or resides.

4. All standard procedures for commencing the service of diksa-guru according to ISKCON law, including required training and other conditions, as well as additional appropriate training from diksa- and/or siksa- gurus, have been met.

5. Final acceptance of the candidate to begin initiating is affirmed by a ¾ vote of the GBC Body.

Additional Mandatory Condition (may be waived by a ¾ vote of the GBC Body):

• The candidate’s own diksa-guru has to retire completely from accepting disciples, or agree to immediately retire upon acceptance of the candidate to accept his own disciples.

Factors to be considered by the GBC in determining if a waiver may be approved:

• The area in which the candidate will initiate has a substantial number of devotees wanting initiation, and a shortage of gurus to do this service.

• Language barriers extenuate the need for gurus who speak the local language in a specific area(s).

• The currently initiating guru is overburdened with responsibilities.

• The currently initiating guru is experiencing serious health problems.

Optional conditions that may be applied in an individual case, per a 3/4 vote of the GBC:

• When the candidate takes up the service of diksa-guru he will only be able initiate in a specific area(s).

• The number of disciples the new diksa-guru may initiate can be limited by the GBC.

The GBC Guru Services Committee shall develop a more detailed process to implement the above resolution. This process will come for final review by the GBC Body.

Section 800: Appointments

802.1 GBC Officers and Members

GBC Officers and Members — 2019

[Action order]

1. HH Bhaktivaibhava Swami is elected GBC Chairman.

2. HH Ramai Swami is elected First Vice-Chairman.

3. HH Bhakti Caitanya Swami is elected Second Vice-Chairman 4. HH Gopal Krsna Goswami is elected GBC Secretary.

5. The resignation of HG Tamohara Das is accepted, and he is awarded the title of GBC Emeritus

6. The resignation of HH Sivarama Swami is accepted

7. HG Guru Gauranga Das is awarded the title of GBC Emeritus.

804.1 Sannyasa waiting list and initiation

Sannyasa Waiting List — 2019

[Action order]

(Proposed and Sponsored by the Ministry for Sannyasa Services)

The following are the candidates for sannyasa along with their respective waiting periods:

Navadwip Dwija Gauranga Das (Bangladesh)	This year
Priti Vardhana Das (Mayapur)	This year
Pushpashila Shyam Das (Bangladesh)	This year
Vrindavan Chandra Das (Vrindavan)	This year
Asim Krishna Das (India)	One year
Bhaktipada Das (Hungary)	One year
Ekalavya Das (India, Middle East, North America)	One year
Sundarlal Das (Mauritius)	One year
Venudhari Das (Mayapur)	One year
Raghava Pandit Das (Delhi/India)	One year
Kamalalochan Das (Mumbai)	Two years
Radha Shyamsundar Das (Vrindavan)	Two years
Vanamali Das (Mumbai)	Two years
Adhoksaja Das (Russia)	Three years
Gopendra Das (Vrindavan)	Three years
Sankarshan Nitai Das (Mayapur)	Three years
Vishvavasu Das (Germany/Baltics/Russia)	Three years
Trailokyanatha Das	Three years
Savyasachi Das (JPS)	Three years
Valmiki Das	Three years
Atmaram Das	Three years
Sutapa Das (UK)	Three years
Govindananda Das (West Bengal)	Four years
Savyasachi Das (BCS)	Six years

805.1 Reaffirmation of Ministries and Standing Committees

Reaffirmation of Ministries and Standing Committees — 2019

[Action order]

The following are the Ministry and Standing Committees and their membership assignments for 201920:

Congregational Development Ministry	Co-Ministers – Jayapataka Swami, Kaunteya Das
ISKCON Deity Worship Ministry	Minister – Nrsimha Kavaca Das
ISKCON Youth Ministry	Minister – Manorama Das
Ministry of Book Distribution	Minister – Vijaya Das
Ministry of Communications	Minister – Anuttama Das
Ministry of Cow Protection and Agriculture	Minister – Kalakantha Das
Ministry of Education	Minister – Sesa Das
Ministry of Fund Development	Minister – Devakinandan Das
Ministry of Health and Welfare	Minister – Prahladananda Swami Other member – Bir Krishna Das Goswami
Ministry of Justice	Minister – Sesa Das
Ministry of Justice: ISKCON Dispute Resolution Committee (IDRC)	Minister of Justice, a representative of ISKCON Resolve, the second Vice-Chairman of the GBC, and the Director of the ISKCON Dispute Resolution Office
Ministry of Justice: ISKCON Dispute Resolution Office	Director – GBC EC, pending nomination
Ministry of Padayatra	Minister – Lokanath Swami
Ministry of Sannyasa Services	Minister – Prahladananda Swami Other members: Bhakti Gauravani Goswami, Bhaktivaibhava Swami, Bhakti Caitanya Swami, Hrdaya Caitanya Das
Vaishnavi Ministry	Minister – Radha Dasi (California)
ISKCON General Counsel	Devakinandan Das (MVG)
GBC Nominations Committee	Members – Bhakti Caitanya Swami (Chairman), Praghosa Das, Gopal Bhatta Das (Convenor), Anuttama Das, Tamohara Das, Revati Raman Das, Radha Krsna Das, Gauranga Das, Aniruddha Das, Devakinandan Das (MVG), Kaunteya Das, Tapana Misra Das
GBC Organizational Development Committee	Gopal Bhatta Das & Kaunteya Das (Co-chairs) – Anuttama Das, Bhakti Caitanya Swami, Badrinarayan Swami, Hrdaya Caitanya Das, Jayapataka Swami, Praghosa Das, Revati Raman Das, Sivarama Swami, Aniruddha Das, Caitanya Avatari Das, Devakinandan Das (Juhu), Devakinandan Das (MVG), Gaura Krishna Das, Gauranga Das, Praharana Dasi, Rasa Krida Parayana Das, Rupanuga Das, Subhananda Das, Tapana Misra Das, Tirtharaja Das, Vraja Vihari Das
GBC-BBT Team	Members – Badrinarayan Swami (Coordinator), Gopal Krishna Goswami, Sivarama Swami, Madhu Sevita Das, Hrdaya Caitanya Das, Praghosa Das
GBC Vaisnava Calendar Committee	Members – Bhanu Swami, Gopalapriya Das, Sadasivananda Das, Bhaktarupa Das (Convener)
Guru Services Committee	Members – Anuttama Das, Prahladananda Swami (Chairman), Virabahu Das, Bhakti Caitanya Swami, Bhaktimarga Swami, Ramai Swami, Atul Krishna Das (Mayapur)
ISKCON Central Office of Child Protection	Director – Kamlesh Krishna Das
ISKCON Property Office	Members – Current GBC Executive Committee, Bhaktarupa Das, Devakinandan Das (MVG), Govardhan Das, Tapana Misra Das
Sastric Advisory Council	Core Members: Urmila Dasi (Chair), Hari Parsad Das, Narayani Dasi, Adi-purusa Das, Sarvajna Das, Brijabasi Das, Associate Members: Giriraja Swami, Krishna Kshetra Swami, Radhika Raman Das, Drutakarma Das, Gauranga Das, Gopinatha-acarya Das, Harideva Das, Caitanya-caran Das, Bhakti-Vijnana Goswami, Gopal Hari Das, Kanai Krishna Das, Krishna Abhishek Das
World Holy Name Festival Committee	Global Coordination Team – Lokanath Swami, Janananda Goswami, Ekalavya Das

810 Appointment of Global Duty Officers

Appointment of Global Duty Officers — 2019

[Action order]

(Proposed and Sponsored by the GBC Nominations Committee)

The following devotees are appointed as GDOs:

1. Vaisesika Das	(reconfirmed) One World Book Distribution Team
2. Radheshyam Das	Training and making devotees from/in the West
3. Bhakti Vinoda Swami	International outreach development
4. Caitanya Avatari Das	ISKCON Initiated-disciples’ database
5. Devakinandan Das	International Projects’ masterplan development: Puri/Mayapur

Section 900: Financial and Legal

901 GBC Annual Budget

GBC Budget — 2019

[Action order] The GBC Budget for 2019-20 is (in INR):

Annual General Meetings	578,000
Cow Protection & Agriculture	340,000
Child Protection Office	680,000
Dandavats	414,800
Deputies –Travel for Assistant	68,000
Deity Worship Ministry	952,000
Emergency Fund	272,000
Legal & related expenses	680,000
Executive Committee Travel	204,000
Finance & Bank Charges	34,000
GBC Strategic Planning Team	748,000
GBC Corresponding Secretary	448,000
GBC EC Secretary	448,000
ISKCON Congregational Development Ministry	170,000
ISKCON Temple Database	115,600
ISKCON Mayapur’s Ethics, Standards & Compliance Office (ESCO)	170,000
ISKCON News	299,200
ISKCON Resolve	544,000
ISKCON Sannyasa Ministry	68,000
ISKCON Connection	136,000
Prevention of Leader Misconduct Office	136,000
Legal Committee	136,000
Mayapur GBC Office	421,600
Ministry of Education	428,400
SABHA (Spiritual Advisors Bhagavata Assembly)	544,000
Sastric Advisory Council (SAC)	204,000
Swami Productions (Bhaktimarga Swami)	136,000
Vaisnava Calendar Website	34,000
Vaishnavi Ministry	68,000
TOTAL	9,479,200