Christian Dalits Face More Discrimination
by Katey Hearth
Mission Network News
"Christian Dalits are the target discrimination again in India. It’s not bad enough that they’re called “untouchables;” the government says it shouldn’t and won’t help the country’s poorest citizens.
“'They don’t want to offer assistance because they’re fearful that Hindus will convert, just so they can get government assistance,” explains Emily Fuentes with Open Doors USA.
"It’s a battle that’s more than 50 years old, but rising Hindu nationalism is putting a new spotlight on the conflict. On their Web site, Open Doors reports “Hinduism is experiencing a revival in India,” resulting in even more pressure on Dalits who follow minority religions like Islam and Christianity.
"In addition, while India’s constitution technically outlaws discrimination based on caste, this isn’t the modern reality.
"Government assistance in the form of free education, government jobs, and legislative seats are protected by law for Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist Dalits. However, the same 1950 law forbids these forms of assistance to Muslim and Christian Dalits..."
“'They don’t want to offer assistance because they’re fearful that Hindus will convert, just so they can get government assistance,” explains Emily Fuentes with Open Doors USA.
"It’s a battle that’s more than 50 years old, but rising Hindu nationalism is putting a new spotlight on the conflict. On their Web site, Open Doors reports “Hinduism is experiencing a revival in India,” resulting in even more pressure on Dalits who follow minority religions like Islam and Christianity.
"In addition, while India’s constitution technically outlaws discrimination based on caste, this isn’t the modern reality.
"Government assistance in the form of free education, government jobs, and legislative seats are protected by law for Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist Dalits. However, the same 1950 law forbids these forms of assistance to Muslim and Christian Dalits..."
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