New Delhi, May 19, 2026: The CBCI Office for SC/BC held a two-day consultation and planning meeting in New Delhi on May 14 and 15 to strengthen legal and social efforts for the empowerment of Dalit Christians across India.
The meeting brought together newly appointed office bearers, bishops, legal experts, and social leaders to review the long-pending Supreme Court case related to Dalit Christian rights and discuss future strategies for advocacy and development.
Bishop Jaya Rao Polimera of Eluru, Chairman of the CBCI Office for SC/BC, along with Bishop Peter Rumal Kharadi of Jhabua and Auxiliary Bishop Geevarghese Mar Aprem of Kottayam, visited the national office to better understand the challenges faced by Dalit Christians.
A major part of the meeting focused on the legal battle currently pending before the Supreme Court. Senior advocate Prashant Bhushan briefed participants on the status of the case and recent legal developments. Advocates handling the matter also explained the impact of recent court judgments and their connection to the ongoing case.
Judge Ramulu Dunna from Andhra Pradesh presented a detailed study on the issue and suggested steps to strengthen the Commission’s future work. These included forming a legal cell with dedicated advocates and building stronger public and political support for Dalit Christian concerns.
Church leaders stressed the need for focused action in education, employment, and social empowerment. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to coordinated legal advocacy and stronger support for marginalized communities across the country.
