Christian Delegation Seeks Repeal of Karnataka Anti-Conversion Law, 1% Reservation

Bengaluru, September 16 : A Christian delegation led by Bangalore Archbishop Peter Machado met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and raised several issues concerning the Christian community in Karnataka. The delegation sought the repeal of the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022, along with a separate 1% reservation for Christians under the Backward Classes category.

 

 

The Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022, was passed when the Basavaraj Bommai-led BJP government was in power. In June 2023, after the Congress government came to power, it announced plans to repeal the law. However, no further action has been taken on the proposed repeal so far.

 

The law prohibits conversion from one religion to another through “misrepresentation, force, undue influence, coercion, allurement or by any fraudulent means or by promise of marriage.”

 

According to a press release issued by the Archbishop's office, the delegation raised concerns over the provisions of the legislation and its implications for the Christian community. It said the delegation highlighted issues related to constitutional freedoms and the right to practise and propagate one's faith.

 

The delegation also urged Kharge to consider a separate 1% reservation for Christians under the Backward Classes category.

 

It highlighted the socio-economic challenges faced by sections of the Christian community and sought appropriate measures to provide greater opportunities in education, employment and other areas of development.

 

At present, Christians are included in Category-3B, which has a 5% reservation shared with five other communities and their subgroups, including the Lingayats.

 

 

 

The delegation also requested Kharge to consider the nomination of a Christian representative to the Karnataka Legislative Council.

 

At present, Congress leader Ivan D'Souza is the lone Christian MLC. The delegation said that nominating a “suitable” Christian representative would provide the community with a platform to raise its concerns and participate in the legislative process.

 

The delegation further urged the Congress president to ensure “adequate and meaningful representation” for Christians on various government boards, corporations and other statutory bodies.

 

 

According to the delegation, fair representation in these institutions would allow members of the community to participate more effectively in public administration and contribute to the development of Karnataka.

 

The delegation said Kharge gave its members “a patient and attentive hearing” and assured them that he would take up their concerns with the government.