Verghese V Joseph –
Trichy: On August 10, the Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council (TNBC) organized significant events across the state to observe Black Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the ongoing struggle for Scheduled Caste (SC) status for Dalit Christians and Dalit Muslims. This observance marks the 74th anniversary of the denial of SC status, which stems from the Presidential Order of 1950 that excludes individuals from non-Hindu religions from being recognized as members of Scheduled Castes. This exclusion contradicts the secular principles of the Indian Constitution and violates fundamental rights as outlined in Articles 14, 15, 17, and 25.
The TNBC, led by Bishop Jeevanandam, the Chairperson of the Commission for SC/ST, mobilized efforts across 18 dioceses in Tamil Nadu. Each diocesan commission issued circulars to engage local communities, with diocesan secretaries and field staff playing pivotal roles in organizing public meetings and protests. These gatherings aimed to highlight the plight of Dalit Christians and Muslims to both Union and State governments.
The events attracted over 6,000 participants from various dioceses, including notable areas such as the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore, Madurai, and Pondicherry-Cuddalore. The diverse attendance included bishops, vicar generals, political leaders, and representatives from various religious congregations, reflecting a united front for the cause of equal rights.
Father Nithya Sagayam, the Secretary of the Commission for SC/ST and a Capuchin Franciscan Friar, played a vital role in coordinating these efforts. He worked closely with Bishop Jeevanandam and other church leaders to advocate for justice. The events also saw participation from political figures like Mr. Sinthanai Selvan of the Viduthalai Katchi Kal Party (VCK) and leaders from various Muslim political parties, showcasing a broad coalition of support.
The gatherings culminated in the submission of memoranda to political leaders at both the Union and State levels, emphasizing the need for recognition and rights for Dalit Christians and Muslims. The Tamil Nadu Church has decided to seek further assistance from the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.) and the DMK Political Party to apply additional political pressure for this cause.
The struggle for SC status has been a long-standing issue for Dalit Christians and Muslims in India. The 1950 Presidential Order has perpetuated systemic discrimination, denying these communities access to the benefits and protections afforded to Scheduled Castes. Despite converting to Christianity, many Dalit Christians continue to face caste-based discrimination within the church, limiting their participation in church activities and leadership roles.
Socioeconomic disparities further compound these challenges, with many Dalit Christians living in poverty and lacking access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. The denial of SC status has also hindered their ability to secure land ownership rights, leaving them economically vulnerable.
The observance of Black Day in Tamil Nadu serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by Dalit Christians and Muslims in their quest for equality and recognition. The TNBC’s mobilization efforts reflect a growing awareness and activism within the community, as they seek to address the systemic injustices that have persisted for decades. With continued advocacy and support from both religious and political leaders, there is hope for progress in the fight for equal rights and recognition for these marginalized groups in India.
The presidential order of 1950 is well-thought out by excluding non-Hindus from Scheduled Caste (SC) status. It’s because casteeism exists among Hindus only by their classification into four categories namely (1) Brahmins – accorded the highest ritual status of the four social classes/castes/varnas. (2) Kshatriyas – the second highest caste within the Varna (Caste) system (3) Vaishyas – classed third in the order of Varna hierarchy. The occupation of Vaishyas consists mainly of agriculture. (4) Shudras – representing the lowest Hindu caste or varna in the ancient vedic system. However, I am not a proponent/advocate of the caste system.
Officially there is no caste system among Christians and Muslims. In the Supreme Court, our bishops have consistently denied of any caste-based discrimination among Christians. Also in Christianity through one Baptism no one is high (Brahmin or Kshatriya) and no one is low. This is the official stance of Christianity and Islam. For Dalit Christians to get SC status, our Bishops first have to admit under oath in the Supreme Court / High Courts that there is caste-based discrimination in the Church. Reportedly casteeism is practised in churches in South India, namely separate Holy Communion queues, separate burial grounds, etc. In that case, Christianity would be meaningless and the so-called Dalit Christians will have to do “Ghar Wapasi” and revert to Hinduism to get SC recognition.
One cannot both have the cake and eat it too!