Christian Delegation Urges Kharge to Scrap Karnataka Anti-Conversion Law

A delegation of Christian leaders from Karnataka met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge at his Bengaluru residence on September 14, seeking government action on several long-standing concerns affecting the Christian community. The delegation was led by Bangalore Archbishop Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado and included Bishop Peter Paul of Mangalore, Bishop Francis Serrao of Mysore, Fr Arun Lewis SJ, and lay representatives from the Archdiocese of Bangalore. Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge was also present during the meeting. The main issue raised was the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Bill, 2021, commonly referred to as the state’s anti-conversion law. Christian representatives called for its repeal, expressing concern that some provisions could affect the constitutional rights to profess, practise and propagate religion. The delegation also presented three other demands. It sought the nomination of a Christian representative to the Karnataka Legislative Council, arguing that such representation would give the community a greater voice in the legislative process. Another request was for one per cent reservation for Christians within the Backward Class category, citing socio-economic difficulties faced by sections of the community. The group additionally called for greater Christian representation on government boards, corporations and other statutory bodies. According to the statement issued after the meeting, Kharge listened to the delegation and discussed the concerns in detail. He reportedly assured the representatives that he would raise the issues with relevant state government leaders and seek appropriate consideration. Veteran human rights activist and All India Catholic Union spokesperson Dr John Dayal said the community was becoming increasingly concerned about the lack of political representation. He argued that the anti-conversion law should have been reconsidered after the Congress government came to power and called for greater Christian participation in decision-making institutions. Archbishop Machado has previously raised objections to the legislation with state authorities, including the Chief Minister and Governor. He has argued that the law raises concerns relating to constitutional protections for freedom of conscience and religious practice under Articles 25 and 26. The meeting comes at a significant political moment for Karnataka, where the Congress party leads the state government. Priyank Kharge’s presence was also notable, following his appointment as the state’s Home Minister earlier this year. The Christian delegation expressed hope that the concerns raised during the meeting would lead to concrete consideration and action by the Karnataka government.