Amritsar: The Supreme Court ruling denying Schedule Caste (SC ) status to non-Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist communities has drawn mixed reactions from Christians. Some call it discriminatory towards Dalit converts, while others underline the Chritistian ethos of equality and urge the community to seek dignity beyond reservations.Jasbir Sandhu, president of the Punjab Christian Youth Fellowship (Tarn Taran district), said the govt does not have reliable data on how many people have converted to Christianity. He said the Christian community has long been demanding inclusion in reservation benefits, arguing that if other castes receive quotas on religious grounds, Christians should also be considered.He pointed out that many Christians, especially those living along the border areas, belong to Dalit backgrounds. “In a democratic country, everyone has the freedom to adopt any religion,” he said.Citing history, Sandhu said Sikh leaders like Master Tara Singh ensured SC status for Sikhs while Kanshi Ram played a key role in securing recognition for Buddhists. However, he lamented that Christians lack adequate representation in Parliament, resulting in their concerns being overlooked.“It is unfortunate that we face discrimination on the basis of religion. As Indians, Dalit Christians should be granted SC status,” he asserted.In the recent past, the Supreme Court ruled that a person professing any religion other than Hinduism, Sikhism or Buddhism cannot be recognised as a member of schedule caste.While stating that the decision is totally irrelevant as there is no strict measure which can determine which religion or cult someone is practising, Kanwal Bakshi, president, United Christian Front, Punjab, said, “I appreciate the equal status given in Christianity.” Bakshi further said that those Christians who are making a hue and cry about the Supreme Court decision should stop it. “Rather, they should feel honoured that Christianity provides them equal status.“Another activist of Punjab Christian Youth Fellowship, Sukh Talwandi, said all religions deserve respect. “We are free to adopt or leave any faith, but if the Supreme Court has ruled this way, it is not good for us. If a Dalit Sikh embraces Hinduism, he is recognised as Scheduled Caste — then why not Christians? This is discrimination. The rule should be the same for all.” MSID:: 129847512 413 |
