Telangana Ministers bat for SC status for Dalit Christians

Telangana Scheduled Caste Development and Tribal Welfare Minister Adluri Laxman Kumar at a consultation meeting for Dalit Christian Reservations in Hyderabad on Wednesday. Also seen is Minority Welfare Minister Md. Azharuddin. | Photo credit: Special Correspondent

Telangana Scheduled Caste Development and Tribal Welfare Minister Adluri Laxman Kumar on Wednesday (July 8, 2026) said that granting Scheduled Caste (SC) status to Dalit Christians is a constitutional right and a matter of social justice rather than a concession.

While attending the Dalit Christian Reservations Consultation held in Hyderabad along with Minority Welfare Minister Md. Azharuddin said conversion changes a person’s religion but does not erase caste discrimination, poverty or social exclusion.

The minister lamented that Dalit Christians continue to face discrimination in villages, educational institutions, workplaces and even in marriages. He questioned the denial of constitutional guarantees on religious grounds, asking, “If discrimination remains unchanged, why should rights change?” He argued that the problem should be viewed through the lens of constitutionally guaranteed equality and justice.

Mr. Kumar assured that the State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy remained committed to protect the rights of marginalized communities, minorities and Dalit Christians. He said the recommendations and concerns raised during the consultation would be summarized in a report and submitted to the Chief Minister for further action.

Calling for unity, Mr. Azharuddin said the struggle should not remain limited to meetings and resolutions but must evolve into a permanent democratic people’s movement. Bishops, pastors, Christian organizations, Dalit associations, intellectuals and youth must work together to strengthen the demand, he said. The minister added that he would make every effort to ensure that the issue was given due attention at the state level and effectively promoted at the relevant national and parliamentary forums.

Osmania University Arts College Principal C. Kasim had earlier highlighted the impact of the 1950 Presidential Order on the rights of Dalit Christians and called for a united struggle. Telangana State Christian Finance Corporation Chairman Deepak John, former MLC Rajeshwar Rao and several religious and community leaders attended the meeting.

Published – 8 Jul 2026 17:49 IST