Indian Church Seeks Equity for Dalit Christians

The Archdiocese of Madras–Mylapore, in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, launched a signature campaign on June 26, calling on the State Government to provide a 4.6% internal reservation for Dalit Christians, people belonging to the lowest rung of the oppressive Indian caste system, within the existing Backward Class (BC) quota.

Although Tamil Nadu has a strong reservation system, Dalit Christians continue to be excluded from the Scheduled Caste (SC) category due to their religious identity.

This exclusion persists despite the social, economic, and educational marginalization they continue to face.

“This is not a demand for a new quota, but a fair plea for internal reallocation within the existing BC quota,” said Fr. Maria John Bosco, Chairman of the Archdiocesan SC/ST Commission. “Until the Supreme Court grants SC status to Dalit Christians, this 4.6% internal reservation would help address their historical and ongoing marginalization.”

The signatures collected during the campaign will be officially submitted to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, urging swift and meaningful policy action.

The Commission has called on parishes across the Archdiocese to support the initiative through the involvement ofBasic Christian Communities, parish councils, youth movements, and women’s groups.

Faith communities are being urged to stand in solidarity with Dalit Christians in their quest for justice.

Church leaders view this campaign as a vital effort to rectify a long-standing injustice and to promote dignity, equity, and representation for all marginalized groups within both the Church and society.