28th October, 2014
This is a quick update on the status of One JAIN meeting after exactly one month. As was agreed at this meeting, Institute is in the process of developing strategy for the next steps and expects to circulate this before the end of 2014. A follow-on meeting will be called soon thereafter.
Jain organisations were invited to the meeting by Institute on 28th September and there was 100% support either in person or in the form of backing letters.
Here is a synopsis of the meeting held on 28th September, 2014 at the EKTA Centre N W London:
The meeting was conducted by Dr Abhay Chopada as independent Chair. He was introduced by the Institute Chair Mr Nemu Chandaria, OBE, followed by self-introduction by all those present. Letters of support were read out by Ms Varsha Dodhia.
After the mission was explained by Dr Chopada, Dr Mehool Sanghrajka explained the need for unity. He expressed the need for one voice representation nationally; concern for our youth; concerns for the elderly and attention to our business development. These were the FOUR FOCAL POINTS.
The Chair then invited representatives of major organisations first, followed by all others, to express their views. Everybody expressed positively that the Institute was best suited to lead the One JAIN strategy. The Chair then proposed the following resolution for the meeting to approve:
“The Jain Organisations in the UK hereby resolves that the Institute of Jainology is entrusted with the task of leading the One JAIN vision in the UK and provide a unified voice for Jainism in the UK, involving other organisations as necessary, to promote the cause of Jainism.”
He was asked to repeat the resolution, which he did. It was then put to vote and was supported by all present by show of hands. Dr Chopada also asked the meeting if there were any objections, and there was none. He thanked the meeting for full support, and also the organisations which were not present but had backed the proposal through letters.
The meeting then deliberated on the next steps and it was agreed that the Institute will draft a document suggesting the line of action. In response to timing, it was agreed that such a document should be presented within six months. Mr Chandaria suggested that action should not be rushed as in the past ‘running before walking’ was perhaps the cause of failure. Patience in this situation was the best virtue.
Mr Kumar Mehta, Director of the Institute, then presented a vote of thanks and on behalf of the Institute asked for forgiveness for any transgressions or ill feelings caused during the meeting.
The meeting was declared closed by the Chair.
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