Terms and Conditions, Code of Conduct, and Ethical Guidelines for GBHO (Global Bhutanese Hindu Organization)

1. Introduction

The Global Bhutanese Hindu Organization (GBHO) serves as a platform to connect priests with individuals, families, and communities seeking Dharmic services, including rituals (sanskaras) from birth to death and other spiritual functions. These Terms and Conditions, along with our Code of Conduct, Ethics Policy, and consent guidelines, outline the responsibilities, expectations, and commitments of all participating priests and service users. By working with GBHO or reserving religious services through our platform, all parties agree to abide by these Terms and Conditions.

2. Mission, Vision, and Objectives

All registered priests and participants must adhere to the mission, vision, and objectives of GBHO to promote unity, harmony, and the spiritual well-being of the Bhutanese Hindu community worldwide. These principles guide our actions, services, and interactions, ensuring that we uphold the values of inclusiveness, respect, and integrity.

3. Priest Registration, Identification Card, and Annual Fees
Priest Identification Card
  1. GBHO will issue an official identification card to every registered priest.
  2. The ID card must be carried at all times when performing services at devotees' homes, community events, temples, or any other place where religious duties are conducted.
  3. The validity of the card will be printed on the card and must be respected.
Loss and Replacement of Card
  1. If the card is lost, it must be reported to GBHO immediately.
  2. A replacement card will be issued upon request, and a replacement fee may apply.
Annual Registration Fee
  1. All priests must pay an annual registration fee to maintain their active status with GBHO.
  2. Failure to make the payment by the due date will result in suspension of the priest’s status, and the ID card will become inactive until payment is made.
Inactive Priest Status
  1. If the payment is not made on time, the priest will be considered inactive and may not perform services through GBHO or use the identification card.
  2. Once payment is made, the priest’s status will be reinstated, and the card will regain validity.
4. Code of Conduct and Ethics for Priests
Integrity and Respect
  1. Priests must uphold the principles of honesty, humility, and fairness in all services.
  2. Every individual’s spiritual beliefs and cultural practices must be respected, recognizing the value of diverse opinions within the community.
Confidentiality
  1. Personal, religious, or sensitive information shared during rituals or consultations must be kept confidential.
  2. Priests shall not disclose any information shared by community members without explicit consent, unless required by law.
Proper Use of Power and Influence
  1. Priests must use their influence solely for the spiritual well-being of the community and not for personal or financial gain.
  2. Any form of coercion, manipulation, or undue influence is strictly prohibited.
Non-Discrimination
  1. GBHO and its priests will not tolerate discrimination based on race, gender, age, caste, socioeconomic status, or belief system.
  2. All individuals must be treated with equality, fairness, and dignity.
5. Insurance Liability and Responsibility of Priests
Insurance and Liability
  1. Priests are solely responsible for their own insurance coverage and liability while performing any rituals, consultations, or services.
  2. GBHO is not liable for any accidents, injuries, damages, or losses incurred during the delivery of services by the priests.
  3. Priests must ensure they have proper insurance coverage or take personal responsibility for any incidents or liabilities that arise.
6. Scope of Services Provided
Religious Rituals and Sanskaras
  1. The priests registered with GBHO will provide services for rituals and sanskaras from birth to death, including but not limited to:
  1. Namakarana (naming ceremony)
  2. Vivah Sanskara (wedding rituals)
  3. Antyeshti (funeral rites)
  4. Housewarming ceremonies
  5. Pujas for festivals, personal well-being, or specific intentions.

Consultation and Counseling Services
  1. Physical and online consultation services will be provided by priests for individuals seeking spiritual guidance, family counseling, or Dharmic advice.
Community Functions
  1. Priests may also participate in or officiate community events such as cultural celebrations, fundraisers, and social programs.
7. Consent for Media Use
  1. By registering as a priest with GBHO, you provide full consent to the organization to use and publish your name, photos, videos, audio recordings, and other related content on its social media platforms, website, and other promotional materials.
  2. This consent is entirely voluntary and is not a condition for registration.
  3. GBHO will ensure that the use of media aligns with the organization’s mission to promote cultural, spiritual, and social cohesion.
  4. If a priest wishes to withdraw consent for future use of media, they may do so by providing written notice to GBHO.
8. Fees, Donations, and Payments
Service Charges and Non-Refundable Policy
  1. The service fees will be determined and provided by the individual who reserves the service.
  2. The amount may vary based on the type of ritual or consultation requested.
  3. A percentage of each service fee, to be decided by GBHO, will be donated directly to the organization for community development, operations, and charitable activities.
  4. All fees, donations, and payments are non-refundable to the priest, even in cases of cancellation, no-shows, or disruptions beyond the priest’s control.
  5. The organization will not refund any fees or payments received from priests who become inactive or no longer wish to serve through GBHO.
Donation to GBHO
  1. As a commitment to supporting the Global Bhutanese Hindu Organization, a pre-agreed percentage of each service charge (e.g., 10%-20%) will be donated to GBHO.
  2. These funds will go towards maintaining the platform, community outreach programs, and other charitable efforts.
Payment Responsibility
  1. Individuals booking services are responsible for making payments directly to the priest or through GBHO’s approved payment channels.
  2. Any travel, accommodation, or additional expenses required for the service are the responsibility of the client unless mutually agreed upon otherwise.
9. Proper Use of GBHO Platform
Role of GBHO as a Medium
  1. GBHO serves as a medium to connect priests with individuals and families in need of spiritual services.
  2. The organization acts as a facilitator and is not responsible for any personal or legal disputes between the priest and the client, although it may offer mediation if required.
Compliance with Laws and Regulations
  1. All services conducted through GBHO must comply with local, national, and international laws where applicable.
  2. The platform must not be used for illegal, unethical, or fraudulent activities.
10. Rules for Physical and Online Services
Physical Services
  1. Physical services must adhere to local safety regulations.
  2. Priests must ensure proper hygiene, dress code, and safety standards when conducting services at homes, temples, or community events.
Online Services
  1. Online services, including virtual consultations and rituals, must be conducted through approved platforms.
  2. Priests are responsible for ensuring quality, professionalism, and clarity during online sessions.
11. Community Respect and Inclusion
Recognizing Diverse Opinions
  1. GBHO acknowledges and respects the diversity of opinions, practices, and beliefs within the community.
  2. Priests and participants must engage in respectful communication, recognizing that differences in opinion are opportunities for learning and growth.
Promoting Unity and Harmony
  1. Priests are expected to promote harmony within the community by avoiding controversial or divisive speech.
  2. GBHO strives to build a space where every community member feels welcome, respected, and valued.
12. Accountability and Dispute Resolution
Accountability
  1. Priests registered with GBHO are accountable to the community and the organization. Complaints about misconduct, unprofessional behavior, or breach of these terms will be investigated promptly.
  2. Depending on the severity of the issue, GBHO reserves the right to suspend or revoke the registration of any priest found in violation of these guidelines.
Dispute Resolution
  1. Any disputes between the priest and the client should be resolved through open communication and mutual understanding.
  2. If necessary, GBHO can offer mediation services to facilitate resolution.
13. Voluntary Participation
Voluntary Registration
  1. By registering as a priest with GBHO, you acknowledge that this participation is entirely voluntary and not coerced in any way.
  2. You confirm that you are willingly registering with the intent to serve the community and abide by GBHO's mission, values, and terms of service.
14. Termination and Amendments
Termination of Services
  1. Priests or clients may terminate their association with GBHO at any time by providing written notice.
  2. GBHO also reserves the right to terminate the registration of priests who fail to comply with these terms or engage in unethical conduct.
Amendments to Terms and Conditions
  1. GBHO may amend these Terms and Conditions from time to time. Changes will be communicated to all registered priests and service users, and continued participation will constitute acceptance of the updated terms.
15. Acknowledgment and Agreement
By registering as a priest or engaging in services through GBHO, all parties acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agreed to abide by these Terms and Conditions, the Code of Conduct, and the ethical guidelines outlined herein. These policies aim to ensure transparency, fairness, and mutual respect, fostering trust and unity within the community.