GBC Resolutions 2022

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

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2022

Go to 2022 Zonal Assignments

Section 200: Governing Body Commission

201.02: GBC Body: Regulations

[Title] – GBC non-intervention in the functioning of its deputed agencies — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meetings (passed on July 20, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas the GBC Body (GBC) has created various ISKCON agencies, offices and committees to which it has delegated authority to deal with abuse of minors, leadership sexual misconduct and other transgressions involving ISKCON sannyasis, gurus, leaders and members. As of the date hereof, these agencies, offices and committees are the ISKCON Child Protection Office (ICPO), the Prevention of Leadership Misconduct Office (PLMO), the ISKCON Sannyasa Ministry and the Guru Services Committee

Whereas a few of these agencies, offices and committees, such as the ISKCON Sannyasa Ministry and the Guru Services Committee contain, within their guidelines, provisions by which the GBC may be called to act as a decision-making or appellate adjudicatory body

Whereas the GBC recognizes the necessity for these agencies, offices and committees to function without the intervention of the GBC, except in instances where the Guidelines of these agencies, offices and committees provide otherwise.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

Henceforth, all allegations of conduct risking or resulting in the physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation of a minor shall be directly and automatically referred to the ICPO; all allegations of a sexual act or behavior by an ISKCON leader with adults, or other misconduct, which are in violation of the standard of behavior for ISKCON leaders as contained in ISKCON Law as well as the Code of Ethical Behavior, directly and automatically to the PLMO; all allegations of misconduct by an ISKCON sannyasi, directly and automatically to the ISKCON Sannyasa Ministry and all allegations of misconduct by an ISKCON guru, directly and automatically to the ISKCON Guru Services Committee. Where any allegation of misconduct falls under the jurisdiction of multiple ISKCON agencies, offices and committees, there shall be concurrent jurisdiction of each.

Except for appointing the CPO and PLMO Directors and approving CPO and PLMO Guideline and policy objectives, the GBC Body shall refrain from intervening in the work of the various ISKCON agencies, offices and committees described herein.

204.03 GBC Meetings: Annual General Meeting:

[Title] – Dates for 2023 GBC Annual General Meeting — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meetings (passed on October 5, 2022) [Category] – Action order

Resolved that:

The Annual General Meeting of the ISKCON Governing Body Commission Society shall be held from February 7-11, 2023, at ISKCON Mayapur, WB, India

206:02: GBC proposals, resolutions, and voting: Resolutions and proposals

[Title] – Sponsorship of Proposals: Amendment — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on June 19, 2022) [Category] – Rule of order

Whereas the GBC passed the following resolution in 2019:

Change of rule regarding sponsorship of proposals — 2019 That the GBC Rules of Order be modified to state, in addition, “However, duly constituted ISKCON ministries and standing committees may submit proposals for consideration by the GBC Body for matters directly within their mandate without the requirement of getting two GBC members as sponsors. 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.”

Whereas this Rule of Order applies only to Ministries and Standing Committees

Whereas it is seen in practice that the SABHA, the SAC, and other administrative entities are also submitting proposals under the auspices of this resolution.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

That the Rule of Order “Change of rule regarding sponsorship of proposals — 2019” is modified to:

Duly constituted GBC administrative entities may submit proposals for consideration by the GBC Body for matters directly within their mandate without the need for separate sponsorship by GBC members.

The following entities may submit proposals without the requirement of sponsorship by two GBC members:

ISKCON Global Ministries GBC Standing Committees Spiritual Advisors Bhagavat Assembly (SABHA) ISKCON General Counsel GBC Strategic Planning Team BBT-GBC Relations Committee ISKCON Central Office for Child Protection ISKCON Property Office Sastric Advisory Council Prevention of Leadership Misconduct Office GBC Executive Secretariat GBC Deputies Organizational Development (Org Dev) If there is any question raised regarding whether a submitted proposal is actually within the mandate of the submitting entity, then the GBC Deputy Executive Committee in conjunction with the GBC Executive Committee will decide.

207:03: GBC Staff: GBC Executive Office

[Title] – Establishing the GBC Executive Office — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meetings (passed on December 21, 2022) [Category] – Administrative Order

Whereas the GBC Executive Committee may benefit from increased executive and administrative support to assist in supervising the various entities and initiatives connected to the GBC

Whereas the GBC can become more relevant, relatable, accessible, and effective with such an addition and would benefit from improved digital record keeping.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

The GBC Executive Office is hereby established.

The GBC Organizational Development Committee is mandated to, in close consultation with the GBC EC, gradually develop such an Office over the course of 2023, and to identify ways and means for its funding in perpetuity.

The Office, its physical features located in Sridham Mayapur, shall at least consist of an Executive Director, a Director for Ministries and Standing Committees, a Director for Core Support Functionaries and a Director of Corporate Services.

Regular progress reports will be submitted to the GBC, for additional inputs, as required.

The duties and responsibilities of the GBC Executive Office shall include, but are not limited to:

 Assisting and supporting the GBC EC.  Following up on the implementation of GBC resolutions.  Overseeing and facilitating the work of global Ministries, GBC Standing Committees and other Offices, under the care of the GBC EC.  Attend to all compliance matters for the GBC West Bengal Society.  Creating and maintaining a GBC archival system, ensuring digital filing, and archiving of all relevant documentation of all GBC-related functions; developing research capacity.  Assisting the GBC in creating and maintaining a global diary, as well as short-term and long-term work plans.  Creating and maintaining a digital directory of incorporated ISKCON national chapters, local centers, and other ISKCON-related entities.  Serving as the global communications desk; standardizing and maintaining the GBC website and other GBC-related online presence.  Participating in developing the agenda for AGM, MTGM and other GBC meetings, including:  Regularly conducting censuses.  Ensuring that the ISKCON Law Book and other policy documents remain updated.  Embedding capacity for audit and risk management.  The Executive Director may attend GBC meetings as non-voting staff member.  Being a resource and support to individual GBC members, Global Duty Officers, and Special Duty Officers.  Facilitating the process of leadership succession and the integration of the next generation.  Liaison between the GBC and the SABHA.  Facilitating the upgrading of ISKCON into a world-class organization.

The role of the GBC Executive Office is to assist the implementation of the GBC’s will, vision, decisions and strategies and has no independent function beyond this mandate. The organogram is as follows:

GBC ADMINISTRATIVE AND EXECUTIVE SUPPORT

209:04: Spiritual Advisors Bhagavat Assembly (SABHA): Annual meeting

[Title] – SABHA Annual Meeting — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meetings (passed on November 23, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas SABHA is in the process of planning our annual meeting in Mayapur for 2023

Whereas according to the SABHA Foundation Document, the SABHA annual meeting is obligatory to attend for all SABHA members

Whereas all work on reviewing GBC Resolutions has been done online for the last two years and SABHA has been quite efficient in fulfilling its duties via online meetings

Whereas some SABHA members have health considerations

Whereas some SABHA members have financial considerations, and SABHA has a limited budget.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

That SABHA is allowed to have an option of holding SABHA Annual Meetings in an in-person, online or mixed format decided by the majority vote by SABHA and approved by the GBC EC.

209:05: Spiritual Advisors Bhagavat Assembly (SABHA): President’s Annual Conference

[Title] – Presidents’ Annual Conference – Repealed — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on June 19, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas it is required for the smooth functioning of the GBC meetings that the Rules of Order are up-to-date and available to all members

Whereas the Rules of Order have not been updated for many years

Whereas previously the GBC passed the following resolution which was classified as a Rule of Order:

PRESIDENTS’ ANNUAL CONFERENCES

I. ANNUAL CONFERENCES

1. An Annual Conference of the temple presidents to be called the “Annual Temple Presidents’ Meeting” shall be held every year at the same location as the annual GBC meeting. After the GBC has completed its agenda, the temple presidents’ meeting shall be held. The regional secretaries should also attend the Presidents’ Meeting.

2. At the commencement of the meeting there shall be harinama sankirtana, and immediately thereafter a passage from the works of Srila Prabhupada shall be read aloud as an invocation.

ll. POWER OF ANNUAL CONFERENCES

1. The annual Presidents’ Meeting shall examine the resolutions passed by the GBC during their annual meeting and pass resolutions recommending acceptance, amendment, or rejection of the GBC resolutions, all of which shall be in the form of recommendations that shall be referred back to the GBC. The GBC Body shall meet and hear the presidents’ recommendations and shall pass their own resolutions which shall be final.

2. An additional meeting of the temple presidents and/or regional secretaries shall be held during or after the annual GBC meeting at Sri Mayapur in the form of istagosthi workshops where the presidents and/or the regional secretaries can informally exchange ideas on how to spread Krsna consciousness and strengthen the movement. During the general annual Presidents’ Meeting the schedule for the next year’s istagosthi workshop shall be finalized. As many presidents / regional secretaries as possible should attend. This is an amendment to the previous rule. [82]

lll. DUTIES OF PRESIDENTS CONFERENCES

1. The former “temple presidents’ meeting” will now be referred to as the “ISKCON Managers Meeting.” [86]

2. That rules of order #50 from the 1986 GBC meeting be superseded to read as follows: a. Those eligible to attend and vote in the “ISKCON Manager’s Meeting” are as follows: i. The president of any authorized temple or preaching center listed in BACK TO GODHEAD or any other official Bhaktivedanta Book Trust publication. Any center that cannot officially publish its address can get authorization from the GBC chairman). If a President cannot personally attend, he can authorize in writing a representative to attend. ii. Regional secretaries. iii. At the request of the body, guests may be invited as observers to participate in the meeting. iv. Headmasters of Gurukulas with more than 50 students, and non- GBC global ministers. [88]

3. To elect the Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and Secretary of the Meeting.

4. To elect the Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, and Sergeant of Arms for the meeting. This is an amendment to the previous rule. [82]

5. To discuss the GBC resolutions and pass resolutions to recommend their acceptance, amendment, or rejection to the GBC.

6. To pass resolutions recommending for adopting by the GBC any new resolution not included in the GBC resolutions.

7. The Chairman and his functions:

a. The Chairman shall be elected from among the temple presidents at their annual general meeting. His term shall be the full duration of the meeting.

b. He shall preside over the temple presidents’ meeting and shall regulate the proceedings according to the rules of order, and he shall sign the temple presidents’ minutes.

8. The Vice-Chairman and his functions:

a. The Vice-Chairman shall be elected in the same manner as the Chairman.

b. He shall assist the Chairman in discharging his duties and in his absence shall perform the same.

9. The Secretary and his functions:

a. The Secretary shall be elected from among the temple presidents at the Annual General Meeting, his term being the duration of the meeting and the completion of his duties.

b. He shall keep and maintain the minutes of all proceedings of the presidents’ meeting and present them to the GBC.

c. He shall sign the minutes along with the Chairman to verify their correctness and take signatures of all attending temple presidents at the outset of the meeting.

10. Voting: At the annual temple presidents’ meeting all questions shall, subject to any rules or bylaws, be decided by simple majority of all those members present and voting, the voting being by show of hands. The Chairman shall cast the deciding vote. To reject any resolution of the GBC a majority of two- thirds vote of the members present at the meeting shall be required.

11. A GBC representative shall attend the presidents’ meeting. One or more members of the GBC shall be nominated by the GBC Chairman, with the consent of the GBC members, to attend the temple presidents’ meeting to answer any questions, to make “personal explanation” motions, etc., on behalf of the GBC body, and to generally render assistance to the Chairman. He shall not have voting power in the presidents’ meeting.

12. Agenda of meeting:

a. The GBC resolutions and any supplementary material should be seen by the temple presidents at least one day before their meeting at Mayapura.

b. The meeting shall consider all GBC resolutions and pass its own resolutions recommending to the GBC that each GBC resolution be passed as is, amended, or rejected. After completion of this business any motions (proposals) that may have been submitted to the Chairman in writing in advance and that are signed by at least three temple presidents shall be admitted by the Chairman for discussion, taking the members’ consent. All motions admitted for discussion shall be debated and put to question as per the rules of order. The Chairman shall decide the order of business for matters originating in the temple presidents’ meeting.

13. Amendments, rules of debate, etc: The rules of order of the GBC regarding amendments, procedural motions, rules, debate, personal explanation, rights, and rules of order numbers IV.1.4, IV.L.3, IV.J.7, and IV.J.8 shall be followed during the temple presidents’ meetings.

14. Participation in presidents’ meeting:

a. Only presidents of an ISKCON temple shall be eligible to participate in the temple presidents’ meeting. A list of temple presidents shall be made by the GBC secretary according to the advice of the local GBC members at least one day before the meeting takes place. Only one vote per temple shall be allowed, and if co-presidents exist at any temple they may both attend, but with only one vote between them.

b. BBT secretaries or managers or devotees in similar responsible positions who are not GBC members, on the recommendation of their BBT trustees or GBC member, shall be eligible to attend the annual temple presidents’/regional secretaries meetings at Mayapura at the Gaura Purnima Festival. [81]

15. All regional secretaries and temple presidents shall come for their own meeting at Gaura Purnima before the festival begins. [81]

16. The Sergeant at Arms shall strictly regulate admission, participation, and voting at the annual presidents’ meeting to only those persons authorized to participate and vote, as well as keep order during their meetings. [82]

17. The presidents’ meeting shall appoint committees on the request of the GBC or the GBC Committees to fulfill duties as assigned. [82]

18. Temple presidents at their annual meeting shall appoint committees for performing duties given by the GBC or its standing committees. [82]

19. The past year’s Chairman of the temple presidents’ meeting shall attend the final GBC meeting in Mayapura when the presidents’ resolutions are read to the GBC body.

20. The new officers of the temple presidents’ meeting shall be present when the presidents’ resolutions are read to the GBC Body. [83]

Whereas the President’s Annual Conference has not taken place for many years

Whereas this role has been taken on by the SABHA

Whereas the SABHA has been effective in this service.

Therefore, it is resolved that: That the resolution “President’s Annual Conference” is repealed and removed from the ISKCON Law books.

Section 300: ISKCON

301:05: ISKCON Members: Restricting a devotee’s participation in

ISKCON

[Title] – Status of Anirdesya Vapu dasa (formerly known as Bhaktividya Purna Swami) — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meetings (passed on December 14, 2022) [Category] – Governing law

Whereas an October 28 2022 CPO decision determined that Anirdesya Vapu dasa, previously known as Bhaktividya Purna Swami, had engaged in the sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and psychological abuse of a child

Whereas it was also confirmed that he had engaged in sexual acts with at least one adult woman over an extended period of time

Whereas a further investigation by the Guru Services Committee has confirmed the same

Whereas such behaviors are in gross violation of Vaisnava codes of conduct, especially for someone who is trusted to give spiritual guidance as a leader and a guru. They go against the very principles of care for the vulnerable which should guide our every action and thought

Whereas in February 2007 Anirdesya Vapu dasa was restricted from accepting disciples via GBC Resolution 312/B which was based upon a CPO decision from September 2000

Whereas it has been established that Anirdesya Vapu dasa violated that prohibition and initiated devotees after that date

Whereas based on the 2022 CPO decision, and the new information about the extent of Anirdesya Vapu dasa’s abuses that it revealed, and his other violations, the GBC Guru Services Committee has determined that Anirdesya Vapu dasa is unqualified to serve as either a diksa-guru or siksa-guru (initiating disciples, or offering spiritual instruction)

Whereas the GBC Sannyasa Committee has suspended Anirdesya Vapu dasa’s sannyasa status, and that is likely to be made permanent in the near future.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

The GBC affirms that Anirdesya Vapu dasa is, for the duration of his life prohibited from:

 Accepting disciples in ISKCON; and  Serving as a siksa-guru in ISKCON; and  Giving any form of spiritual guidance or instruction, including leading or contributing to any classes, meetings, or seminars of any kind, at any ISKCON temple, or affiliated program, festival, venue, or online forum.

Furthermore, regarding those devotees who accepted initiation from Anirdesya Vapu dasa:

 If such an initiation was before February 2007, those devotees are advised to seek spiritual guidance from senior devotees in ISKCON and to continue serving within ISKCON as they have been doing. They continue to be initiated devotees in ISKCON, in the line of Srila Prabhupada, with the full privileges and responsibilities thereof. Yet, if any of those devotees chooses to seek reinitiation from a guru in good standing in ISKCON, either now or in the future, they are welcomed and encouraged to do so. In such a circumstance, devotees should seek further guidance from their local ISKCON authorities and GBC.  If such an initiation occurred after February 2007, the date that Anirdesya Vapu dasa was prohibited from initiating, those devotees are strongly advised to seek initiation from an ISKCON guru in good standing, as their current initiation status has no standing in ISKCON.

The GBC EC will reach out to ISKCON devotees worldwide, and especially those impacted by Anirdesya Vapu dasa’s abuse and other actions to share this information and to offer them appropriate spiritual support.

301:06: ISKCON members: Individual devotees

[Title] – GBC Decision regarding Lokanath Swami — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meetings (passed on July 20, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas in 1990 a devotee invited Lokanath Swami to stay with his family for several days while recovering from a serious injury. The host also “requested Lokanath Swami to train and impart Indian culture to his youngest daughter, who was eleven and a half years old at the time” (the “minor”)

Whereas the minor alleged to ISKCON’s Governing Body Commission (“GBC Body” or “GBC”) three years later that Lokanath Swami had touched her inappropriately during his stay in the minor’s home

Whereas the GBC took these allegations seriously and immediately launched an investigation, which included reaching out to the minor and her family. The investigation also included a review by independent mental health experts. The GBC also imposed certain restrictions on Lokanath Swami

Whereas the minor (then an adult) raised the issue again in 2010, 20 years after the original event(s). The GBC then reopened the matter and imposed additional restrictions on Lokanath Swami

Whereas there was recently discussion about reopening the Lokanath Swami matter for a third time

Whereas the GBC appointed a Review Panel whose work resulted in the Review Panel Report of the Lokanath Swami Matter (“the Report”)

Whereas the GBC found the Review Panel’s in-depth and professional Report to be helpful and insightful

Whereas the Review Panel members, unanimously agreed that:

 The allegations concerning Lokanath Swami had been fully investigated in both 1993 and again in 2010-2011  These investigations were adequately documented  Lokanath Swami substantially complied with the restrictions imposed on him  The Lokanath Swami matter be referred back to the GBC to act on the Review Panel’s recommendations

Whereas the GBC has adopted the resolution “GBC non-intervention in the functioning of its deputed agencies — 2022″, requiring that henceforth any plausible claim of abuse or misconduct be directly referred to the appropriate ISKCON agency rather than to the GBC Body

Based on ISKCON’s ecclesiastical principles and practices as well as the Report,

Therefore, it is resolved that: The GBC Body endorses the Review Panel’s recommendation that the Lokanath Swami matter, already twice adjudicated, not be reopened for further proceedings as no new relevant facts pertaining to this matter have come to light, as of the date hereof.

The GBC Body reaffirms its existing policy that an ISKCON Regional Governing Body (“RGB”) or similar body has the right to restrict any devotee from visiting and preaching in their region(s), such as has already been done in North America.

Lokanath Swami shall not initiate disciples, in person or virtually, in any region or area where he has not been welcomed by the relevant RGB or similar body of area leaders. In the case of rare exceptions that may be proposed to the RGB (or similar body), the GBC Executive Committee (“EC”) will assist in reaching an agreeable outcome.

This present Resolution is based on and limited to the facts described herein.

305:01: ISKCON related organizations: Bhaktivedanta Book Trust

(BBT)

[Title] – Improving the Review Process of Editorial Revisions Undertaken by the BBT — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed on March 30, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas an Editorial Review Panel (ERP) was set up by the BBT, in conjunction with the GBC, in 2019 for the purpose of reviewing the editorial revisions made by the BBT editors

Whereas a part of the resolution states that “If there is a dispute between the ERP and the BBT Editorial Board, or for that matter among ERP members themselves about a specific revision, the Global BBT Trustees/Directors will be the final arbiter.”

Whereas the BBT, although responsible, feels that input from the GBC is essential in making any determination about disputes as described, and has requested a set of protocols to deal with this situation.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

Upon the recommendation of the BBT-GBC Relations Committee the following process is adopted by the GBC Body: Including, but not limited to, final decisions on the few cases (five cases in the Introduction and 1st Chapter of Bhagavad-gita) where the ERP and the BBT Editorial Board cannot come to a consensus, that a committee comprising three qualified BBT members and three qualified GBC members be formed to be the final arbiter in the case of any dispute between the ERP and the BBT Editorial Board. The three qualified BBT members will be chosen by the BBT Trustees, and the three qualified GBC members will be chosen by the GBC body. Once those six members are chosen, at their first meeting they will discuss and agree on a seventh member and all decisions will require five of the seven members to vote in favor for it to be ratified.

Footnote:

The GBC have chosen Bhakti Caitanya Swami, Prahladananda Swami and Tapana Misra dasa as their three members to serve on this committee. 305:05: ISKCON related organizations: Bhaktivedanta Research Center

[Title] – Statement of appreciation of the Bhaktivedanta Research Center — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed on GEM on July 14, 2022) [Category] – Vote of thanks

Whereas proper preservation of the rare precious writings including manuscripts, journals and books of our previous acaryas such as the personal library collection of HDG Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura and HDG Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura Prabhupada hosted at the Bhaktivedanta Research Center (BRC) is critical and hence all decisions about their preservation need to be under the purview of the GBC body

Whereas wider utilization of writings of previous acaryas is required and a recognition by GBC will help spread the message amongst the devotee community in general, and amongst scholars (both from the devotee and academic community) in particular, about the unique services provided by BRC in collecting, preserving, researching and teaching in collaboration with reputed universities and scholars worldwide the writings of our previous acaryas

Whereas recognition of the BRC will inspire devotees to spend more time with shastra and appreciate the austerities the previous acaryas have undergone to preserve these literatures.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

The GBC body appreciates the work of the Bhaktivedanta Research Center as a library, research center and academic institute serving ISKCON globally.

[Note: Additional footnotes and documentation supporting this resolution can be found here]

305:06: ISKCON related organizations: Sarasvata Gaudiya Vaisnava Association

[Title] – Sarasvata Gaudiya Vaisnava Association — 2022

[Meeting] Online AGM, (passed via GEM on June 19, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura instructed his disciples to work together

Whereas to reunite the Sarasvata Gaudiya family as a primary objective, Srila Prabhupada established the Bhaktivedanta Swami Charity Trust (BSCT) on the 5th of November 1977, comprised of ISKCON and Gaudiya Math members

Whereas in or around 1980, the BSCT, subsequently formed the Sarasvata Gaudiya Vaishnava Association (SGVA) with the blessings of the then present god-brothers of Srila Prabhupada, such as Srila Bhakti Pramod Puri Maharaja, Srila Bhakti Vaibhava Puri Maharaja, and others

Whereas ISKCON Sri Mayapur has consistently established cordial relations with many neighbouring Gaudiya Maths and international leaders alike over the past fifty years or more

Whereas many of them have shown interest in becoming part of the SGVA

Whereas under the circumstances, it is prudent to formalize a legal constitution of the SGVA.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

1. The GBC agrees in principle to join the formally incorporated SGVA.

2. Jayapataka Swami, Bhakti Purusottama Swami and Bhadra Balarama dasa are assigned to draft a constitution for the SVGA in consultation with the various stakeholders.

3. When the constitution is ready, the GBC Body will review it.

4. After reviewing the SGVA constitution the GBC will decide on its participation/membership.

5. If the GBC decides to join the formal SGVA it will assign representatives to attend meetings.

Section 400: ISKCON Ministries, Committees and Offices

406:01: Ministry of Cow Protection and Agriculture: Regulations

[Title] – Amendment to the Minimum Cow Protection Standards: IMCPA Consultation Team — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on October 7, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas the Minimum Cow Protection Standards established by the ISKCON Ministry for Cow Protection and Agriculture (IMCPA) in 1999 allows for amendments

Whereas the Standards are intended to guide and regulate practices of cow protection and regenerative agriculture in ISKCON

Whereas the IMCPA has identified amendments to the current law that will help in educating stakeholders and resolving issues.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

That the name and functioning of the IMCPA Investigation Team (IT) referred to in the current Minimum Cow Protection and Agricultural Standards will be changed to the IMCPA Consultation Team (CT) as shown below:

XV. CONSULTATION TEAM (CT)

Recommended

1. Selection of CT The Ministry will collect a worldwide list of representatives and consultants to act as a resource pool. Such devotees will be knowledgeable of the standards and have agricultural experience. From this list, the Ministry will select an appropriate CT.

2. Travel To defray travel expenses, representatives who live closest and have knowledge about the problem in question will be chosen first. Centers receiving the consultants are requested to provide travel expenses. A fund can eventually be set up to help with travel expenses.

3. Membership of CT The IMCPA CT should consist of 2 or more devotees not involved in the management of the program being attended and a professional suited to the situation selected by the CT. The professional should not be currently employed by the farm receiving the consultancy.

4. Duties of CT The CT will arrange for group meetings and individual interviews with the stakeholders concerned and is responsible for the compilation of reports are given to all GBC concerned (Local Commissioner, Global Secretary, and Cow Protection Ministry).

406:01: Ministry of Cow Protection and Agriculture: Regulations

[Title] – Amendment to law 406.01 Cow Protection Certificate of Readiness — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on October 30, 2022) [Category] – Governing law

Whereas to ascertain which projects need to apply for a certificate of readiness, all ISKCON farms and goshalas must be registered in the ISKCON Ministry of Cow Protection and Agriculture (IMCPA) directory

Whereas the certificate of readiness is a tool to assist with the long-term sustainability of each cow protection project

Whereas all the major ISKCON farms and goshalas are registered in the directory

Whereas there are still some projects not registered with the directory.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

ISKCON law 406.01 is amended with the following inclusion:

All ISKCON farms and goshalas must be registered in the IMCPA directory. Any project not registered in the directory by the 30th of March 2023, will have to submit a certificate of readiness to be registered in the directory.

Existing farms need to be registered with the IMCPA if they are managed by ISKCON even if they are in the name of a Trust or other entity. The Zonal Supervisors and Zonal Secretaries are responsible to see that all goshalas and farms are duly registered.

Footnote:

Current law with amendment inserted:

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.

All ISKCON farms and goshalas must be registered in the IMCPA directory. Any project not registered in the directory by the 30th of March 2023, will have to submit a certificate of readiness before registration in the directory.

Existing farms need to be registered with the IMCPA if they are managed by ISKCON even if they are in the name of a Trust or other entity. The Zonal Supervisors and Zonal Secretaries are responsible to see that all goshalas and farms are duly registered.

The following are the requirements for obtaining such a certificate, which will allow new cow protection projects to commence their operations: The GBC Minimum cow protection standards “ISKCON law 507 (Care for cows — 1999”) needs to be read and fully understood before applying for the certificate.

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

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 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.

406:02: Ministry of Cow Protection and Agriculture: Minimum Cow Protection and Agricultural Standards

[Title] – Renaming “Minimum Cow Protection Standards” — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on August 18, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas in 1999 the GBC ratified the document entitled “Minimum cow protection standards”

Whereas the addition of agricultural standards requires a change of title.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

The document referenced in “Care for Cows — 1999” entitled “Minimum cow protection standards” will be renamed “Minimum cow protection and agricultural standards.” 406:02: Ministry of Cow Protection and Agriculture: Minimum cow protection and agricultural standards

[Title] – Amendment to Minimum Cow Protection Standards: Pesticides, GMOs, and fertilizers — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on August 18, 2022) [Category] – Governing Law

Whereas scholars agree that “diverse pesticides directly or indirectly pollute the air, water, soil, and overall ecosystem which cause a serious health hazard for living beings.” (Sharma et al., 2019)

Whereas the WHO (World Health Organization) and FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) affirm that the harmful side-effects of pesticides are becoming increasingly clear. (Global situation of pesticide management in agriculture and public health, 2021)

Whereas WHO classifies pesticides as carcinogenic (can cause cancer), and neurotoxic (can cause damage to the brain). (Food safety: Pesticide residue, 2021)

Whereas in places where more than 80 percent of the land is used for industrial agriculture, water tables are dropping quickly

Whereas Srila Prabhupada spoke profusely on the harm such ugra-karmic technologies bring to the planet, the environment, public health, the economy, and to human civilization

Whereas Minimum Cow protection standards referenced in ISKCON Law “Care for Cows — 1999,” Section 1, VIII, recommends that “any property (land and cows) belonging to the deity should be protected by environmentally sound conservation practices designed with the long-term fertility and preservation of the soil in mind” but does not specify the agricultural standards to accomplish this

Whereas ISKCON has established the minimal cow protection standards but has not yet devised the standards for agriculture.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

The following agricultural standards will be added to the Minimum Cow Protection and Agricultural Standards.

The use of:

1. Synthetic pesticides

2. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs)

3. Synthetic fertilizers will not be allowed in ISKCON projects.

A project may continue to use synthetic fertilizers, at most until 2025, under the condition that they present a short-term transition plan towards regenerative agriculture.

Regenerative agriculture and agroecology practices are recommended. Organic Agriculture practices are allowed.

Glossary: GMO: An organism produced through genetic modification. Agricultural Biotechnology Glossary https://www.usda.gov/topics/biotechnology/biotechnology-glossary Regenerative Agriculture: A holistic, principles-based approach to farming. It seeks to strengthen soil fertility, community, and water-sources resilience. Such systems include biodynamics, permaculture design, rotational grazing, biomimicry, agroforestry, syntropic farming, etc. Adapted from (Newton et al., 2020) https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2020.577723 Organic agriculture: Agriculture that focuses on production without the use of synthetic inputs and does not allow the use of transgenic organisms. Agricultural Biotechnology Glossary https://www.usda.gov/topics/biotechnology/biotechnology-glossary

406:02: Ministry of Cow Protection and Agriculture: Guidelines

[Title] – Training and Engagement of Oxen — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on July 20, 2022) [Category] – Guideline

Whereas according to ISKCON’s Minimum Cow Protection and Agricultural Standards, section 2, IX an ISKCON project is not allowed to acquire and breed milking cows if they don’t have a well-defined plan to engage their oxen

Whereas the bull is the emblem of moral principles (SB 1.16.18 purport)

Whereas Lord Caitanya presented that the bull is our father because he helps with food production (CC Adi 17.153)

Whereas working oxen can multitask, provide service of many utilities. They can not only plough land, but also transport pilgrims, guests, community members, and loads. In many places, they also grind spices and grains

Whereas Padayatras offer natural engagement to the oxen and the spreading the holy names

Whereas there are ox-training teachers and courses, within and outside of ISKCON

Whereas most people have a connection with cows through dairy consumption, but very few have any connection with working oxen

Whereas bulls represent 50% of the demographic of bovines to be cared for

Whereas many nations are indicating a need to reduce fossil fuel usage

Whereas Srila Prabhupada writes:

“So, take more land and engage them in agriculture, plowing by the bulls instead of a tractor. Bulls can be engaged in plowing and transporting. Nice bullock carts village to village for preaching. Make the farm the center and go ten miles this side, ten miles that side, ten miles this side, etc., with four bullock carts. Sell books and preach and live peacefully on the farm. People used to engage the bull for this purpose. So there was no problem with which way to utilize them. First of all, this artificial way should be stopped, and the bulls should be engaged in plowing and transporting and smashing the grains. To avoid machinery, petrol, machine oil, by nature’s way.” (Letter to Balavanta, Bombay 3 January 1977)

Therefore, it is resolved that:

All National Bodies and Regional Bodies that have cow protection projects should establish regular training and engagement of oxen, e.g., Padayatra parades, transportation, ploughing, etc. by Janmastami 2025.

[NOTE: The above updated resolutions and full standards of the Cow Protection and Agriculture Ministry can be viewed here: Minimum Cow and Agriculture Standards 407:01: ISKCON Deity Worship Ministry: Standards

[Title] – Mood of worship—Darsanas — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on June 8, 2022) [Category] – Governing law

Whereas in 2021 the GBC made the following statement:

That the GBC reaffirms the mood of worship established by Srila Prabhupada, which is to be followed in all ISKCON centers, is the mood of awe and reverence.

All worship conducted in ISKCON centers, both regular daily worship and occasional worship (such as festivals), must be conducted according to this standard.

All ISKCON leaders are required to ensure that devotees and centers under their care understand and implement worship according to these standards.

As such all practices that demonstrate a different mood of worship are not approved and must be actively discouraged by leaders at all levels. This includes but is not limited to:

1. Devotee’s conduct in the presence of the deities.

2. The way devotees interact with the deities.

3. The manner in which devotees dress the deities, and

4. The different aspects of daily and festival services.

Whereas this resolution reaffirms Srila Prabhupada’s stated requirement of the mood of worship for ISKCON centers as awe and reverence

Whereas it is necessary to define what this mood of worship looks like in the various aspects of deity worship, so devotees understand proper standards

Whereas changing the appearance of deities conflicts with Srila Prabhupada’s stated mood of worship

Whereas every festival brings newer and more creative modifications to the appearance of the deities in some ISKCON centers

Whereas according to Srila Prabhupada’s statement in Adi-lila 14.50, devotees should not divert their attention to the worship of demigods.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

When observing festivals and dressing for daily darsana, the physical appearance of the deity must not be modified. This includes, but is not limited to:

1. Covering the deities’ faces with masks, or otherwise obscuring the normal appearance or darsana.

2. Adding limbs to the deities, such as arms, legs, feet, etc.

3. Modifying the appearance of the deities’ eyes, either changing the colour or the direction they are looking.

4. Dressing the deities as demigods

When temples have an interest in depicting pastimes of the Lord and His associates this may be achieved via the use of dioramas, pictures, drama, and other means. 407:06: ISKCON Deity Worship Ministry: Position papers

[Title] – Deity worship and eclipses — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on October 14, 2022) [Category] – Position papers

Whereas there are different opinions on whether deity worship should continue during eclipses

Whereas there are different opinions on what devotees should do to observe the occasion of a solar or lunar eclipse

Whereas the ISKCON Deity Worship Ministry has prepared a position paper establishing a uniform policy on this matter.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

The position paper, Deity worship and eclipses, is accepted as ISKCON’s official position on this topic.

408:01: Ministry of Education: Gurukula

[Title] – GBC Inquiry regarding Child Abuse at Sridham Mayapur and Vrndavana — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meetings (passed on December 14, 2022 [Category] – Action order

Whereas it has been brought to the attention of the GBC Body that there were lapses in the implementation of sufficient child protection measures in the ISKCON Mayapur and Vrndavana Schools

Whereas it is imperative to first identify, by way of an inquiry, the causes of such a lapse in the current governance and system setup for child protection and, subsequently, to put in place measures to avert such lapses from being repeated in the ISKCON Mayapur and Vrndavana schools

Whereas such an inquiry shall not preclude the formation or functioning of other committees with respect to improving child protection within ISKCON.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

The GBC conducts an inquiry to identify the lapses in the implementation of child protection measures at ISKCON Mayapur and Vrndavana schools, details of which are set out below as follows:

1. Scope of enquiry

a. This inquiry will be limited to ISKCON schools with specific focus on examining their current organisational structures and legal frameworks required for child protection and to assess the current risks in respect of the same.

b. Identify the root causes of governance shortcomings in the ISKCON Mayapur Gurukula by interviewing relevant members of the CPO, GBC Zonal Secretaries, Mayapur temple leadership, the current school leadership, and any other parties that may have been connected, directly or indirectly, to the ISKCON Mayapur Gurukula, review the documentation that governs the relationship between these entities and similarly review the governance arrangements and documentation for ISKCON Vrndavana Gurukula.

c. Ascertain whether the governance shortcomings identified above are likely to be replicated across other ISKCON school settings; this will likely include wider interviews and documentation review.

d. Review the structural and legal relationship between the different layers of ISKCON with governance of schools and the CPO.

e. Ancillary to the above review will be the Inquiry’s access to and study of the CPO Guidelines as they relate to scope as outlined in items a–d above.

2. Desired Outcomes

a. Phase one shall entail collating the findings of the Inquiry and making specific written recommendations to the GBC Body in order to remedy the identified shortcomings and areas of improvement for implementation by relevant bodies; and b. Phase two will be supporting implementation of the adopted recommendations of the Inquiry. c. Identifying qualified resources who could help implement the approved recommendations. d. Commissioning mandatory annual child protection audits for every school. These audits should be carried out by professionals (with no conflict of interest) and their reports should be made public.

3. Proposed team

a. Individuals with extensive school safeguarding and inspection experience will be appointed at the discretion of the inquiry coordinator; The team members shall be independent from ISKCON management and have no conflict of interest.

b. The Avanti Schools’ legal advisors are available for consultation where necessary. c. Other volunteers for management, communication, and administration to support this process will be recruited as needed.

d. Navina Krishna dasa will coordinate the inquiry.

4. Funding

Navina Krishna dasa has kindly agreed to raise the funding for the following:

a. Team consultation fees b. Legal consultation fees.

5. Timeline

First phase report is to be presented to the GBC Body within 8 weeks after whatever preliminary information is requested by the team is provided to them.

6. Action items

Upon approval of the GBC Body, the following actions need to be completed:

a. The GBC directs its secretary, and the CPO Director to assist in this endeavor and provide the information timely as requested by the inquiry team.

b. By and before 30th December 2022, GBC members on the India Bureau, headed by Gopal Krishna Goswami, procure the India Bureau’s formal resolution and commitment to support the completion of this inquiry.

c. By and before 2nd January 2023, GBC Zonal secretaries (Jayapataka Swami, Gopal Krishna Goswami, Bhakti Purushottama Swami, Hrdaya Caitanya dasa and Anuttama dasa) and Indian Bureau representatives (Devakinandan dasa, Basu Ghosh dasa and Dayaram dasa) with authority over Mayapur must procure the Mayapur Executive Board (MEB) formal resolution and commitment to support the completion of this inquiry.

d. MEB resolution should include assigning a dedicated co-director to arrange and assure cooperation from the Mayapur management structure for the timely completion of the inquiry.

e. The co-director should procure by 15th January 2023 the preliminary information stated below so that the formal inquiry can ensue.

f. By and before 8th January 2023, GBC Zonal secretaries, and Indian Bureau representatives with authority over Vrndavana must procure the Vrndavana Executive Board (VEB) formal resolution and commitment to support the completion of this inquiry.

g. VEB resolution should include assigning the temple president to arrange and assure cooperation from the Vrndavana management structure for the timely completion of the inquiry.

h. The temple president should procure by 31st January 2023 the preliminary information stated below so that the formal inquiry can ensue.

7. Preliminary information

a. Provide a copy of all resolutions passed by the GBC body and local management with respect to child protection at these schools.

b. The existing CPO guidelines that needed to be adhered to at these centers. c. Provide a copy of any scheme of delegation or legal or financial arrangement that connects the schools to ISKCON. This could be property leases, MOUs, management agreements, governing articles, and so on.

d. Provide a copy of the child protection, health and safety, whistleblowing, complaints, grievance policies that the school has adopted.

e. Provide a list of the names and contact details of the governors of the school and principal/head teacher.

f. Provide a copy of any scheme of delegation or legal framework that sets out the relationship between the international CPO to the GBC body.

g. Provide a copy of any scheme of delegation or legal framework that that sets out the relationship between the local CPT to the GBC body and to the international CPO.

h. Who owns the land and buildings upon which the school operates? i. What is the legal entity that owns the school? Please provide the governing documents for this entity (articles of association and memorandum, trust document etc.).

j. What is the legal entity that operates the school? (If different from the owner). Please provide the governing documents for this entity (articles of association and memorandum, trust document etc.).

[Note: This report has been completed and is currently being reviewed by the GBC]

430:01: Committees: Establishing committees

[Title] – Committees and Subcommittees: Change of Category — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on May 15, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas it is required for the smooth functioning of the GBC meetings that the Rules of Order are up to date and available to all members

Whereas the Rules of Order have not been updated for many years

Whereas the following has been established as a rule of order:

COMMITTEES AND SUBCOMMITTEES

The GBC Body may establish committees with such powers as appropriate. l. POWERS OF COMMITTEE

1. A committee may have the power:

a To make decisions on matters as may be recommended by the GBC.

b To act on behalf of the GBC in some areas as fixed by the GBC.

c To submit reports or recommendations to the GBC as directed.

ll. WORKING OF COMMITTEES

1. The officers should be appointed by the GBC Body.

2. The committee shall elect its Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and Secretary if any of them is not appointed by the GBC.

3. The office bearers shall perform their duties within the limits defined by the GBC and shall remain answerable to the parent body.

lll. APPOINTMENT OF SUBCOMMITTEES

4. A committee may appoint a subcommittee to deal with some specific branch of the work insofar as the committee has not been barred from delegating its powers. The following shall apply:

a The powers delegated to the subcommittee can be revoked or rescinded at any time by the committee. b The subcommittee must report to the committee. c The subcommittee ceases to function as soon as the purpose for which it is created is accomplished.

lV. POWERS AND DUTIES OF SUBCOMMITTEES

1. A subcommittee’s powers and duties shall be clearly stated by the appointing body, paying special attention to the following:

a. Power to recommend or advise b. Power to act, spend, etc. c. Frequency of meetings d. Source of funds, if applicable

V. COMMITTEE REPORT

1. Each standing committee’s Chairman shall submit a written report to the GBC Body at the outset of the yearly meeting as to the work, program, and participation of the committee during the previous year.

Whereas a rule of order is defined as: “Procedures for the functioning of the GBC Body”

Whereas an Administrative Order is defined as: “Orders by which an administrative wing or branch of ISKCON with specific functions is created. A ministry or other functional unit that has an existence beyond the scope of the individuals performing the task”

Whereas this resolution is not a Rule of Order, but an Administrative Order.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

The resolution “Committees and sub-committees” is re-categorized as an Administrative order. 441:02: Vaiṣṇava Memorial Standing Committee: Regulations

[Title] – Amendment to the worship at Vaiṣṇava samadhis — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed on March 28, 2022) [Category] – Governing law

Whereas in December 2020 the GBC passed the resolution “Worship at Vaisnava samadhis — 2020” which states:

1. There will be no daily worship required, either individually or collectively, offered to any Vaisnava in any Vaisnava Memorial Park in Mayapur. However, individuals may occasionally offer incense, flowers or prasadam remnants.

2. A modest ceremony honoring a departed Vaisnava may be organized on the appearance and disappearance days of the departed Vaisnava. This function may include offering bhoga, arati, puspanjali, glorification of the departed Vaisnava and a feast.

3. In accordance with existing ISKCON Law there will be no murti (deity) of any departed Vaisnava. There may be a photo of the departed Vaisnava and where applicable a pair of shoes or other similar paraphernalia.

4. This resolution is retroactive and applies to all existing samadhis located anywhere on ISKCON land in Mayapur.

Whereas the Vaishnava Memorial Standing Committee (VMSC) proposes that such a resolution is applicable everywhere.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

The resolution “Worship at Vaiṣṇava samadhis — 2020” in regard to the worship at Vaiṣṇava samadhis is applicable worldwide and is amended to read:

1. No daily worship, either individual or collective, is required to be offered to any Vaisnava in any Vaisnava Memorial. Still, individuals may offer incense, flowers or prasadam remnants.

2. A modest ceremony honoring a departed Vaisnava may be organized on the appearance and disappearance days of the departed Vaisnava. This function may include offering bhoga, arati, puspanjali, glorification of the departed Vaisnava and a feast. This ceremony must be significantly less elaborate than the worship offered to Srila Prabhupada at that ISKCON center.

3. ISKCON assumes no responsibility for the worship, now or in the future.

4. In accordance with existing ISKCON Law there will be no murti (deity) of any departed Vaisnava established or worshipped on ISKCON property. There may be a photo of the departed Vaisnava and where applicable a pair of shoes or other paraphernalia.

5. This resolution is retroactive and applies to all existing samadhis located on ISKCON property anywhere in the world. Any ISKCON center with an existing deity (as of 28 March 2022) of a departed Vaishnava may apply for exemption via the ISKCON Deity Worship Ministry website and this request will be forwarded to the GBC body for consideration.

442:01: GBC Executors and Property Oversight Committee (GEPOC): Structure

[Title] – Reorganization of the ISKCON Global Property Office and Property Protection Governance — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed on April 13, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas an Unpublished Resolution of 2019 stated:

“The GBC appoints a committee of Govardhana Das and Tapana Misra das, in consultation with the EC and General Counsel, to reorganize the ISKCON Property Office bringing it up to the required standard, with all that that entails. All previous resolutions and appointments in regard the ISKCON Property Office are hereby superseded.”

Whereas this task has now been completed.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

The “Organizational Schematic“ attached hereto, as presented by Govardhana dasa and Tapana Misra dasa pursuant to the above GBC Resolution is hereby approved by the GBC Body.

442:02: GBC Executors Property Oversight Committee (GEPOC): Membership

[Title] – Nominations to the GBC Executors Property Oversight Committee

(GEPOC) — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meeting (passed on October 19, 2022) [Category] – Action order

Whereas the GBC approved the GEPOC structure on 13 April 2022, at the 2022 AGM

Whereas the GEPOC is a permanent committee (GBC Standing Committee) reporting directly to the GBC Body

Whereas the GBC Body has authorized a total number of 8 GEPOC members (mirroring the 8 Executors handpicked by Srila Prabhupada in his Will), but only 5 members have been approved by the GBC Body, as of the present date

Whereas Giriraja Swami has since resigned and opted to serve as an advisor only

Whereas Ramesvara dasa (ACBSP) is an original executor handpicked by Srila Prabhupada and has been serving the GEPOC with great dedication and skill as a GEPOC consultant

Whereas Nrsimhananda dasa (ACBSP) has been serving the GEPOC with great dedication and skill as an invited guest

Whereas the GEPOC is unable to discharge its oversight duties properly without a full complement of members

Whereas the GEPOC unreservedly recommends Ramesvara dasa (ACBSP) and Nrsimhananda dasa (ACBSP) to become full GEPOC members.

Therefore, it is resolved that: The GBC Body approves Ramesvara dasa (ACBSP) and Nrsimhananda dasa (ACBSP) as full GEPOC members until the AGM of 2025.

The chair of the GEPOC will be appointed from amongst its members.

454:02: Other: Preaching Vision Council

[Title] – Preaching Vision Council: Change of Category — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on July 27, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas it is required for the smooth functioning of the GBC meetings that the Rules of Order are up-to-date and available to all members

Whereas the Rules of Order have not been updated for many years

Whereas in 2001 the following resolution was passed by the GBC:

Preaching Vision Council — 2001

That as part of the agenda of every Annual GBC Meeting, there shall be a Preaching Vision Council that shall plan strategies, define standards, and improve the quality of all ISKCON preaching.

Among the duties of the Council shall be:

1. Devising systems to encourage/develop the devotees’ skills/abilities/proclivities through training and education,

2. Finding ways for the GBC and other leaders to facilitate preaching,

3. Discussing ways to increase the number of festivals,

4. Initiating or planning global events (like Srila Prabhupada’s Centennial).

The method of implementing this shall be that every subcommittee of the GBC shall dedicate at least one full session to such work. The results of this shall then be presented in plenary for straw votes for at least one full session, then returned to each subcommittee for final work, and presented again to the plenary for final votes.

Whereas the Preaching Vision Council — 2001 was not formed and has not functioned.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

That the Rule of Order “Preaching Vision Council” is recategorized as a Guideline.

Section 600: ISKCON Spiritual leadership

601:03: Spiritual leadership: Wills and medical directives

[Title] – Execution of wills and advanced medical directives — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meeting (passed on November 23, 2022 [Category] – Governing law

Whereas the members of the GBC, ISKCON initiating spiritual masters, sannyasis and authorized officer bearers (collectively known as “ISKCON Leaders”) are naturally passing from this world, and these leaders may hold, own or control, personally or otherwise, through their agents, ISKCON and/or ISKCON related assets as well as wield significant influence over their disciples (as in the case of initiating spiritual masters)

Whereas ISKCON leaders may, as time goes, also suffer from mental and/or physical incapacity, rendering them unfit, in their lifetime, to make key decisions relating to their personal and managerial affairs as well as property and finance related matters

Whereas many ISKCON leaders, who hold or own ISKCON and/or ISKCON related assets do not have Wills and/or Advanced Medical Directives (‘AMDs’) making clear their intention that the ISKCON assets they hold or own shall remain the property of ISKCON after their demise or during their lifetime if and when they are mentally and/or physically incapacitated

Whereas neglecting to provide clear directions as described above can create confusion and conflict in the absence of a legally recognized Will or AMD

Whereas the ISKCON Oath of Loyalty directs all ISKCON leaders to accept that:

“…All ISKCON’s funds, assets and properties under my control or direction, including anything ISKCON may have acquired under my direction, is the sole property of ISKCON and in the event of my death, resignation, or other relinquishment of all ISKCON responsibilities, all these shall accrue solely to ISKCON and at all times I shall have no claim on them whatsoever…”;

Whereas monies or properties gained by way of personal bequeathment from family members or loved ones, who originally acquired these monies and properties from non-ISKCON sources and/or without utilising the ISKCON name are not included.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

The members of the GBC, ISKCON initiating spiritual masters, sannyasis and authorized officer bearers (collectively known as “ISKCON Leaders”) shall complete the Wills Information Form (‘the Form’) approved by the GBC and submit it to the ISKCON Law Department for its review within a period of three (3) months from the date of receipt of the Form. In this connection, the ISKCON Law Department will, upon request, provide assistance to any ISKCON Leader to complete the Form.

After receiving notification from the Law Department of its review of the Form, the ISKCON Leaders shall be responsible for executing their Wills and Advance Medical Directives (‘AMDs’) within a period of six (6) months from the date of notification and submit a copy of the Will and AMD to the ISKCON Law Department.

The ISKCON Leader is responsible for executing and completing his/her Will and AMD according to the information submitted and the recommendations given in the Form. In the event an ISKCON leader is unable to hire a lawyer or agency to draft the Will and/or AMD, the ISKCON Law Department will assist, as far as practically possible, to refer a lawyer to help draft the Will and AMD for the ISKCON leader.

The ISKCON Law Department will store the Forms and copies of the Wills and AMDs in a confidential and secure database.

All ISKCON Leaders who, prior to this Resolution, have executed their Wills and/or AMDs, shall notify the ISKCON Law Department and forward copies of their Wills and/or AMDs to the ISKCON Law Department for its records and review. The ISKCON Law Department may, upon study of these executed Wills and/or AMDs, request the ISKCON Leaders to amend or re-do their Wills and AMDs if they are not aligned with the requirements as set out in the Form. Such amendment or execution of a fresh Will and AMD shall be completed and submitted within a period of six (6) months from the date of the said request.

All ISKCON leaders shall provide necessary updates to the ISKCON Law Department, if any changes are made to the Wills and AMDs that they will execute or have executed.

In the event of non-compliance of the entirety or any section of this Resolution by an ISKCON Leader, that ISKCON Leader shall be given a reminder by the ISKCON Law Department requesting compliance within one (1) month of the reminder being received. If the ISKCON Leader fails to comply within one (1) month of receipt of the said reminder, non-compliance of the entirety or any section of this Resolution will trigger the following:

1. Suspension of GBC members’ voting rights at the GBC meetings

2. Suspension of ISKCON initiating spiritual masters’ right to give initiations; and

3. Suspension of ISKCON sannyasis from: a. having any managerial authority in ISKCON and b. giving discourses of any kind, either in person or online (including through any form of social media platforms).

Section 700: Gurus and disciples

702.01: ISKCON Spiritual Masters: Qualifications and training

[Title] – Interim Training Program for ISKCON Diksa-gurus — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on October 22, 2022) [Category] – Governing law

Whereas the GBC encourages senior devotees who are already providing spiritual shelter and guidance to consider beginning serving as initiating spiritual masters.

Whereas the GBC has stressed the need to increase the number of ISKCON initiating spiritual masters who will train and accept disciples.

Whereas ISKCON leadership is responsible to ensure that devotees serving as diksa-gurus have the necessary qualifications as presented by Srila Prabhupada.

Whereas the Guru Services Committee, the GBC College for Leadership Development and the ISKCON Board of Examinations have developed an interim training and assessment program.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

The interim training and assessment program (Phase I) outlined in the appendix below shall be a mandatory requirement to commence the service of diksa-guru in ISKCON until the full program (Phase II) to prepare diksa-gurus is available and approved by the GBC. [For any help or questions regarding translation to other languages, please consult the secretary of the Guru Services Committee at: gopika.radhika.devidasi@gmail.com]

Completing this training, which can be taken entirely online, is in addition to the existing requirements such as the Local Area Council endorsement.

Enrolment in the training may take place after the Local Area Council gives their approval for a candidate to serve as a diksa-guru.

APPENDIX

Overview of the Interim Program

Knowledge Requirements

1. Bhakti-sastri degree. Candidates who don’t have it can directly take the ISKCON Board of Examinations (BOEX) exam without taking a course.

2. Writing four essays of between 600 and 1,000 words each on given topics from Srimad-Bhagavatam & Sri Caitanya-caritamrta.

3. Briefly answering a total of 20 thought-provoking questions (in written, audio or video format) on: a. Philosophical aspects b. Application & lifestyle topics c. Institutional aspects d. Controversial issues

4. Reading (or affirming that they have read) at least the one-volume, abridged biography of Srila Prabhupada and “Srila Prabhupada — The Founder-Acarya of ISKCON”; then writing two essays (of 600-words minimum) — or recording an audio or video speech of minimum 10 minutes each on:

a. “Srila Prabhupada’s position as the Founder-Acarya at present and in the future.” b. “The role of ISKCON gurus in connection with the Founder-Acarya.” c. Watching two videos by HH Bhakti Charu Swami: “Four Maxims for ISKCON” and “The Importance of the Institution.” d. Reading the “UMA Paper” and answering related questions. e. Studying a compilation of ISKCON laws regarding the service of ISKCON diksa-gurus and answering multiple-choice questions.

5. Taking the “Spiritual Leadership Course”

6. Studying a compilation of guidelines (not covered directly in ISKCON law) on institutional ethics, diksa-guru etiquette, dealing with disciples and aspiring disciples, etc.

Personal Information, Character & Competencies

Answering questionnaires covering aspects such as asrama situation, mentorship relations, devotional history, health, educational background, finances, etc.

1. Candidates will submit:

a. A list of articles/books they have written — if any. b. Links to lectures/seminars they gave. c. Links to their Internet presence (websites, social media, etc.)

2. Candidates will be encouraged to establish mentorship relations, ideally with existing diksa-gurus.

3. Candidates shall formally commit to participate in whatever ongoing training and association the GBC shall mandate for diksa-gurus.

Resources

1. Candidates will receive information on:

a. Educational and other resources available in ISKCON b. Suggested additional sastric and other reference materials c. Tools — such as databases — used by existing ISKCON gurus 702:02: ISKCON spiritual masters: Regulations

[Title] – Regulations for commencing the service of diksa-guru in ISKCON – part B — 2014: amendment — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on April 24, 2022) [Category] – Governing law

Whereas Resolution 702.02: Regulations for commencing the service of diksa-guru in ISKCON — 2014 states in part that:

4. Three GBC Requests for Further Review:

During the six months from the date of submission of the candidate’s application to the GBC, members of the GBC who question the suitability of the candidate as per the qualifications in ISKCON Law “Procedure for commencing the service of Diksa-guru” (1b) may file written statements with the GBC Corresponding Secretary requesting further review”.

Whereas the six-month period allotted for GBC members to submit their requests for further review of a diksa-guru candidate was originally instituted by Resolution 95 of AGM 1989 with the following rationale:

That before officially objecting to any guru candidate’s recommendation, a GBC member should contact in writing the guru candidate and the chairman of the ten-man committee for clarification. If unsatisfied with the reply, or if not receiving a reply within a reasonable period of time, the GBC member may then officially object. To give enough time for exchange of correspondence, the period allowed to lodge all objections shall be extended to six months” [when regular mail was the only means of official correspondence]

Whereas modern communication technologies that emerged since 1989 provide for much faster and more efficient correspondence mandated by the above resolutions “Procedure for commencing the service of Diksa-guru” (1b) and 95/1989, making the six-month period initially allowed for filing requests for further review unnecessarily long

Whereas with the increase in number of local diksa-guru nominations endorsed by Local Area Committees (that already necessarily include all local Zonal Secretaries), any period of time past two weeks, however extended, will unlikely furnish any essential information.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

(1) ISKCON Law 7.02.02 “Procedure for commencing the service of Diksa-guru” is amended as follows:

4. Three GBC Requests for Further Review

During three months from the date of submission of the candidate’s application to the GBC, members of the GBC who question the suitability of the candidate as per the qualifications in ISKCON Law 7.2 may file written statements with the GBC Corresponding Secretary requesting further review.

a. Absence of Three Requests for Further Review

If the GBC Corresponding Secretary has not received at least three requests for further review by the end of the three-month period, the GBC Corresponding Secretary shall so inform the Chairman of the recommending Council. Then the candidate, after taking the prescribed vows, may commence the service of diksa-guru in ISKCON.

b. Requests for Further Review

If the Corresponding Secretary receives at least three requests for further review by the end of the three-month period, and if the rationales are deemed legitimate by the GBC Executive Committee per ISKCON Law 7.2 “Qualifications of Gurus in ISKCON”, then the GBC Executive Committee will communicate the reasons for the review requests to the Chairman of the Local Area Council that nominated the candidate and ask for the Local Area Council’s response.

The above applies if a single request for further review provides sufficient doubt about the candidate’s good standing as a devotee [rest of 7.4.1.4.2 is unchanged]

This amendment applies retroactively to the diksa-guru candidacies currently under the GBC review.

702:03: ISKCON spiritual masters: Diksa-gurus

[Title] – Reviewing the principles of a diksa-guru system — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed via GEM on April 25, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas in 2017, the GBC adopted the position paper 702.03 Principles for creating a diksa-guru system for ISKCON — 2017. As this paper itself describes, it “explains the authority of ISKCON’s Governing Body Commission (GBC) to create a system for devotees to take up the service of diksa-guru within the society, focusing on the principles behind the system.”

However, the paper did not articulate the GBC’s key concerns behind the no-objection process (which would enable assessments of its effectiveness), and a revised paper could make clear what additional managerial safeguards the process could offer that are not already provided for in ISKCON’s managerial organization, educational standards, and training programs for gurus and disciples

Whereas the paper did not justify guru approvals as the only means to regulate the diksa process, and a revised paper could affirm that Srila Prabhupada expects the GBC to govern and lead according to the direction of sastra — which only calls for mutual testing in a diksa process and does not mention a GBC managerial system of oversight of the diksa process; it could explain why the GBC does not vet and approve siksa-gurus, even though sastra equates them with diksa-gurus

Whereas a revision of this paper is important because it is essential that the GBC offers clearer, more complete principles for its diksa-guru system.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

That the GBC Body hereby approves in principle a revision of its position paper “702.03 Principles for creating a diksa-guru system for ISKCON — 2017.” The GBC Body shall oversee the formation of a group to revise the paper in order to provide clarity on this important topic and to enhance the GBC’s credibility and strengthen its authority. The final revision will be approved by the GBC Body.

Terms of reference for revisions

1. Clarify the basis of support for the current process. Articulate the problems and concerns that the GBC thinks the guru-approval system addresses, to enable assessments of the system’s effectiveness.

2. Explain why the GBC system has two mandatory interventions in guru-disciple relationships, when there is no direction in sastra to accept such third-party approvals. The natural system of siksa-gurus becoming diksa-gurus, mentioned by Srila Prabhupada, is supported by ISKCON’s system of assessing, training, and managing, so why employ another level of bureaucracy to approve diksa-gurus?

3. The list of approved gurus can result in disciples minimizing their own testing, and the current process clearly distinguishes between siksa- and diksa-gurus, effectively diminishing the status of siksa-gurus, who are at least as important as diksa-gurus. Consider how the more natural system of siksa-gurus becoming diksa-gurus is supported by the current system of assessing and training and explain why ISKCON does not institutionally test or approve siksa-gurus, but finds it necessary to approve diksa-gurus.

702:04: ISKCON spiritual masters: Vaisnavi diksa-gurus

[Title] – Implementation of a moratorium on all further appointments of, and initiations by, Vaisnavi diksa-gurus (VDG) in ISKCON — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meeting (passed on November 2, 2022) [Category] – Action order

Whereas the GBC Body has, pursuant to Resolution no. 701.06/2019 and a subsequent amendment to said resolution on 22 December 2021, approved Vaisnavi diksa-gurus (VDG) in ISKCON

Whereas the Indian Bureau (IB) contends that the GBC Body has erred by instituting VDG in ISKCON

Whereas the IB is of the view that further consultation on the VDG matter is needed

Whereas the IB feels that a deeper theological deliberation on guru-tattva is required

Whereas the IB has asked the GBC Body to put on hold its resolution permitting VDG

Whereas the IB has called for a serious dialogue by constituting a joint GBC-IB committee to examine the VDG issue during a period lasting no longer than three (3) years

Whereas the GBC Body is amenable to further consultation and deliberation with the IB.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

1. An immediate moratorium be placed on further appointments of, and initiations by Vaisnavi diksa-gurus (VDG) in ISKCON.

2. A GBC committee be established to formulate a written understanding to be approved by the GBC Body within 4 weeks, with the ISKCON Bureau mandating, among other things, the requirement for proper decorum, the withdrawal of ultimatums, and a solemn pledge to abide by Srila Prabhupada’s request for cooperation.

3. The dialogue be concluded within three years from the date of this resolution.

Section 800: Appointments

805.01: Ministry and Standing Committee appointments: Reaffirmation of Ministries and Standing Committees

[Title] – Reaffirmation of Ministries and Standing Committees — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed on January 18, 2023) [Category] – Action order

The following are the Ministry and Standing Committees and their membership assignments for 2022-23:

Congregational Development Ministry Co-Ministers – Jayapataka Swami, Kaunteya dasa (JPS) ISKCON Deity Worship Ministry Minister – Nrsimha Kavaca dasa (IDS)

ISKCON Youth Ministry Minister – Manorama dasa (SNS) Ministry of Book Distribution Minister – Vijaya dasa (HDG)

Ministry of Communications Minister – Anuttama dasa

Ministry of Cow Protection & Agriculture Minister – Kalakantha dasa (IS)

Ministry of Education Minister – Tapana Misra dasa (BVKS)

Ministry of Fund Development Minister – Devakinandan dasa (Juhu) Other member: Mukunda Madhava dasa

(BSDS) Ministry of Justice Minister – Champakalata DD (IDS)

Ministry of Justice: ISKCONResolve Co-Directors: Brahmatirtha Das, Vraj Vihari Das

(BJD)

Ministry of Justice: ISKCON Dispute Resolution Office Director – GBC EC, pending nomination

ISKCON Dispute Resolution Department Prahladananda Swami (Chair), Champakalata Dasi (Vice-chair) (IDS), Devakinandana Das (MVG), Hansarupa Das, Kamalesh Krsna Das (BCS), Radha Dasi (MG), Vraja Vihari Das (BJD), Navina-shyam Das (BCS)

Ministry of Padayatra Minister – Sri Krishna Chaitanya Swami

Ministry of Sannyasa Services Minister – Prahladananda Swami

Other members: Bhakti Gauravani Goswami, Bhaktivaibhava Swami, Bhakti Caitanya Swami, Hrdaya Caitanya dasa (SDG)

Vaishnavi Ministry Minister – Radha dasi (MG) (California)

ISKCON General Counsel Devakinandan dasa (MVG)

GBC Nominations Committee Members – Bhakti Caitanya Swami (Chairman), Praghosa dasa (SDG), Anuttama dasa, Badrinarayan Swami, Revati Raman dasa (JPS), Radha Krsna dasa (BBGS), Gauranga dasa (RNS), Aniruddha dasa (BJD), Devakinandan dasa (MVG), Kaunteya dasa (JPS), Tapana Misra dasa (BVKS)

GBC Organizational Development Committee Kaunteya dasa (JPS), Gauranga dasa (RNS), Govardhana dasa (BCAIS), (Co-Chairs), Anuttama dasa, Bhakti Caitanya Swami, Badrinarayan Swami, Jayapataka Swami, Praghosa dasa (SDG), Revati Raman dasa (JPS), Aniruddha dasa (BJD), Caitanya Avatari dasa (JPS), Devakinandan dasa (Juhu), Devakinandan dasa (MVG), Gaura Krishna dasa (HDG), Praharana dasi, Tapana Misra dasa (BVKS), Tirtharaja dasa (TKG), Vraja Vihari dasa (BJD)

GBC Strategic Planning Team Vraja Vihari dasa (BJD) (Chair), Ananta Sesa Das (IDS), Deva Madhava dasa (JPS), Kaunteya dasa (JPS), Pancharatna dasa, Vrsabhanu dasa (PSDG), Govinda Priya Devi Dasi (RNS), Parijata Dasi (RNS), Aradhya Bhagavan Das (BCS), Shyama Sakhi Devi Dasi (RNS), Tosan Nimai Das (RNS)

BBT-GBC Relations Committee Members – Badrinarayan Swami (Coordinator), Gopal Krishna Goswami, Madhu Sevita dasa, Praghosa dasa (SDG) (Coordinator), Devamrita Swami, Bhaktivaibhava Swami, BBT Trustees and BBTI Directors

GBC Vaisnava Calendar Committee Members – Bhanu Swami, Gopalapriya dasa (BVS), Sadasivananda dasa (JPD), Bhaktarupa dasa (Convener)

Guru Daksina Committee Badrinarayan Swami (coordinator), Bhakti-bhusana Swami, Bhanu Swami, Guru Prasad Swami, Niranjana Swami, Praghosa dasa (SDG) Prahladananda Swami, Ramai Swami

Guru Services Committee Members – Anuttama dasa, Prahladananda Swami (Chairman), Virabahu dasa, Bhakti Caitanya Swami, Bhaktimarga Swami, Ramai Swami, Atul Krishna dasa (PVS) (Mayapur)

ISKCON Central Office of Child Protection Director – Kamalesh Krishna dasa (BCS)

ISKCON Harinama Sankirtana Ministry Minister: Sri Krishna Chaitanya Swami

Janananda Goswami

GBC Executors Property Oversight Committee (GEPOC) Jayapataka Swami, Gopal Krsna Goswami, Guru Gauranga dasa, Nrsimhananda dasa, Ramesvara dasa, Tapana Misra dasa (BVKS), Govardhana dasa (BCAIS)

Sastric Advisory Council Members: Urmila dasi (Chair), Bhakti Prabhava Swami, Hari Parsad dasa (RGS), Narayani dasi, Adi-purusa dasa (GKG), Sarvajna dasa (NRS), Kartika Chandra dasa (RNS)

Associate Members: Giriraja Swami, Krishna Ksetra Swami, Drutakarma dasa, Radhika Ramana dasa (HPS), Caitanya-caran dasa (RNS), Gopinatha-acarya dasa (KKS), Bhakti-Vijnana Goswami, Gopal Hari dasa (GKG), Kanai Krishna dasa (RNS) Prevention of Leadership Misconduct Office Mahavisnupriya DD

Vaisnava Memorial Standing Committee Bhanu Swami, Giriraja Swami, Malati DD, Hrdaya Caitanya dasa (convenor) (SDG), Gauranga dasa (RNS), Nrsimha Kavaca dasa

(IDS)

GBC Secretariat Staff Ananda Tirtha dasa (PVS) Corresponding Secretary Radha Sundari DD (RNS) EC Secretary Mahamani Govinda dasa (JPS) Treasurer Subha Krsna dasa (RNS) GBC Office Manager 805:03: Ministry and Standing Committee Appointments: Individual Ministers

[Title] – Champakalata dasi (IDS) appointed as Minister of Justice — 2021

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meeting (passed on December 1, 2021) [Category] – Action order

Whereas Sesa dasa has retired from the service of Minister of Justice leaving this portfolio vacant

Whereas Champakalata dasi (IDS) has served in various capacities both in South Africa and internationally over the past 33 years, which services have included being Director of the ISKCON’s International Child Protection Office (CPO), communications and public relations, legal advisor, Vice President and Chairperson of ISKCON KwaZulu-Natal management board, and currently as the Vice-Chairperson of ISKCON’s Dispute Resolution Department, Director of ISKCON’s Prevention of Leader Misconduct Office and General Counsel for ISKCON South Africa National Council

Whereas as well as being professionally qualified and admitted as a practicing Attorney, Conveyancer and Notary Public, and an Acting Magistrate in South Africa, she possesses the relevant experience, knowledge, skills and attributes to be appointed as the Minister of Justice.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

Champakalata dasi (IDS) is appointed as the ISKCON Minister of Justice with immediate effect.

802:01: GBC officers and members: GBC officers

[Title] – GBC officers — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed in February 2022) [Category] – Action order

Resolved that:

1. Bhanu Swami is elected GBC Chairman

2. Revati Raman dasa (JPS) is elected First Vice-Chairman

3. Guru Prasad Swami is elected Second Vice-Chairman

4. Gopal Krishna Goswami is elected GBC Secretary

802.02: GBC officers and members: Individual member appointments

[Title] – Tapana Misra dasa appointed as a GBC member — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed on March 23, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Whereas the referrals and the authorities fully support Tapana Misra dasa (BVKS) to fulfill the GBC Secretary role

Whereas Tapana Misra dasa fulfilled all requirements of the Nomination Process, including essays, questionnaires, zonal analysis and was fully cooperative during the process

Whereas Tapana Misra dasa has a service and occupational track record that proves their eligibility to be an international leader

Whereas Tapana Misra dasa’s spouse agreed that the applicant can accept the GBC Secretary position if the GBC Body accepts the applicant

Whereas the Applicant’s financial conditions are in category 5, so he is fully independent, and self-maintained

Whereas Tapana Misra dasa’s skills and competencies are developed enough to serve in the capacity of a GBC Secretary

Whereas the areas of improvement are not contradictory to the GBC Secretary service

Whereas the Zonal Analysis and Strategy submitted by Tapana Mishra Das are fully in compliance with the GBC Body’s strategic plan.

Therefore, it is resolved that:

Tapana Misra dasa is appointed as the GBC Zonal Secretary for the Arab League Countries.

802:03: GBC officers and members: Individual member resignations

[Title] – Sesa dasa’s resignation — 2022

[Meeting] GBC Virtual Meeting (passed on September 1, 2021) [Category] – Statement

Resolved that:

The resignation of Sesa dasa is accepted.

802:03: GBC officers and members: Individual member resignations

[Title] – BB Govinda Swami’s resignation — 2022

[Meeting] Online AGM (passed on March 23, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Resolved that:

The resignation of BB Govinda Swami is accepted.

802:03: GBC officers and members: Individual member resignations

[Title] – Praghosa dasa’s resignation — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meeting (passed on July 27, 2022) [Category] – Action order

Resolved that:

The resignation of Praghosa dasa is accepted.

802.04: GBC officers and members: Individual members on leave of absence

[Title] – Romapada Swami’s leave of absence extension — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed on February 18, 2022) [Category] – Action order

Resolved that:

The Leave of Absence of Romapada Swami is extended by a further one year, to March 2023.

802.05: GBC officers and members: Individual members becoming emeritus

[Title] – Praghosa dasa as GBC Emeritus — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meeting (passed on July 27, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Resolved that:

In recognition of his long-standing service to the GBC Body, Praghosa dasa is hereby awarded the status of GBC Emeritus.

802.05: GBC officers and members: Individual members becoming emeritus

[Title] – Sesa dasa as GBC Emeritus — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed on February 18, 2022) [Category] – Statement

Resolved that:

In recognition of his long-standing service to the GBC Body, Sesa dasa is hereby awarded the status of GBC Emeritus.

804.01: Sannyasa waiting list: Sannyasa appointments

[Title] – Sannyasa waiting list — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed on June 8, 2022) [Category] – Action order

Resolved that:

The following are the candidates for sannyasa along with their respective waiting periods: Vanamali dasa (GKG) (Mumbai) this year

Sankarshan Nitai dasa (JPS) (India) this year

Prana Govinda dasa (USA) this year

Sutapa dasa (KKS) (UK) this year

Adhoksaja dasa (NRS) (Russia) One year

Gopendra dasa (BCS) (Vrndavana) One year

Kamalalochan dasa (GKG) (Mumbai) One year

Radha Shyamsunder dasa (LOK) (Vrndavana) One year

Valmiki dasa (CCCD) One year

Savyasachi dasa (JPS) One year

Trailokyanatha dasa (GGS) One year

Atmaram dasa (GGS) Two years

Vishvavasu dasa (NRS) (Germany/Baltics/Russia) Two years

Govindanandana dasa (BCS) Two years

Savyasachi dasa (BCS) (Swaziland) Three years

807.01: Appointment of auditor

[Title] – Appointment of auditor — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed on March 28, 2022) [Category] – Action order

Resolved that:

Sri Ratnesh Singh Chandel aka Rasa Parayana dasa (GKG), Partner, Kothari Chandel & Co Chartered Accountants 219/220 Office No. 2, Murlidhar Apartment, Kelkar Road, Narayan Peth, Pune 411030, is appointed as statutory auditor for the year 2022–23.

808:02: Other appointments: Leader Misconduct Office

[Title] – Appointment of Director of the Prevention of Leader Misconduct Office — 2022

[Meeting] – GBC Virtual Meeting (passed on December 21, 2022) [Category] – Action order

Whereas the ISKCON Prevention of Leader Misconduct Office (PLMO) requires a skilled and experienced Director to replace Champakalata dasi, who has been appointed as the Minister of Justice

Whereas Mahavisnupriya devi dasi (ACBSP) has volunteered to take up this service

Whereas Mahavisnupriya devi dasi has years of experience in this field, working with trauma and victimization of children, teens, and young adults. She possesses the necessary qualifications, qualities and the leadership maturity as required by page 29 of the PLMO Guidelines to head this Office

Whereas the guidelines and policy manual for this Office have been completed by Champakalata dasi and adopted by the GBC body; thereby providing the framework for the functioning of the PLMO and the investigation as well as adjudication of complaints.

Resolved that:

Mahavisnupriya devi dasi (ACBSP), who has been serving as the Acting Director of the International Office for the Prevention of Leader Misconduct (PLMO) since Oct. 16, 2022, be appointed as the Director of the PLMO until the 2025 AGM, with an option to renew subject GBC approval and to terms and conditions to be decided when the option is being exercised.

The mandate, deliverables, and performance of the Director and the PLMO will be subject to review by the GBC Body (as with other Offices and Ministries). The PLMO Director will report to the GBC EC.

810.02: Global Duty Officer appointments: Reappointments

[Title] – Reappointment of Global Duty Officers — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed on March 4, 2022) [Category] – Action order

Resolved that:

That the following Global Duty Officers are reappointed for a further one-year term:

Caitanya Avatari dasa (JPS) India ISKCON initiated disciples’ database, CDM support Devakinandan dasa (MVG) Singapore General Counsel for ISKCON Law Department

Devakinandan dasa India International Projects’ masterplan development, Mayapur, Puri Gauranga dasa (RNS) India Devotee Care, BRC, GEV 2.0 Kaunteya dasa (JPS) Mayapur Org Dev, Congregation Development Co-minister, SPT Krishna Premarupa dasa

(BSDS) Switzerland Long Term Guru Training, Ministry of Education

Mathuresa dasa (JPS) Bolivia Latin America GBC College; GBC Executive secretariat Office (ESO) Mukunda Madhava dasa

(BSDS) India GBC Finance

Praharana dasi Canada GBC Executive Secretariat Office (ESO) Radheshyam dasa (RNS) India Recruiting Full Time Youth Devotees Shyamananda Krishna dasa

(GKG) Australia Environment—Green Temple Initiative

Tapana Mishra dasa (BVKS) Mayapur GDO Office, Education Ministry, ISKCON Property Office Tirtharaja dasa (TKG) Hong Kong Global Leaders Database, ESO Vaisesika dasa USA One World Book Distribution Team

Section 900: Financial and legal

901: GBC annual budget [Title] – GC Budget — 2022

[Meeting] – Online AGM (passed on April 4, 2022) [Category] – Action order

Resolved that:

The GBC Budget for 2022-23 is (in INR):

Annual General Meetings 629,000

Cow Protection & Agriculture 555,000

Child Protection Office 555,000

GBC Org Dev Committee — Constitution Work 222,000

Dandavats 473,600 Deputies — Travel for Assistant 74,000 ISKCON Deity Worship Ministry 1,036,000 Emergency Fund 296,000 Legal & related expenses 370,000 Executive Committee Travel 222,000 Finance & Bank Charges 37,000 GBC Strategic Planning Team 814,000

GBC Corresponding Secretary 488,400 GBC EC Secretary 488,400 ISKCON Congregational Development Ministry 296,000 ISKCON Temple Database 55,500 ISKCON Mayapur’s Ethics, Standards & Compliance Office (ESCO) 46,250

ISKCON News 296,000

ISKCON Resolve 222,500

ISKCON Sannyasa Ministry 111,000

Mayapur GBC Office 296,000

Ministry of Education 407,000

SABHA 222,000 Vaishnavi Ministry 111,000

TOTAL 8,323,150