Bangalore: Archbishop welcomes K’taka Caste Census, urges inclusion of Christian communities
Bengaluru: The Archdiocese of Bangalore, along with bishops, pastors, and Christian community leaders across Karnataka, has extended support to the ongoing Social and Educational Survey (Caste Census) being carried out in the state from September 22 to October 7.
Addressing the press on behalf of the community, Archbishop Rev. Dr. Peter Machado said the census would play a vital role in identifying the real beneficiaries of government welfare schemes. He noted that proper classification of caste groups will help frame policies and programmes that are just, inclusive, and based on actual needs. The Archbishop stressed that the survey would also assist the state in correcting disparities and ensuring that the weakest and most marginalised are not left behind.
At the same time, the Archbishop voiced concerns about the omission of certain castes linked to Christianity in the published lists. He expressed hope that such exclusions would be rectified during the final analysis of the survey. “Deletions, if any, risk denying historical communities their rightful recognition and may cause injustice in accessing welfare schemes. The Church urges the government to take note of these exclusions and ensure fair representation of all Christian communities,” he said.
The Church has also issued guidelines to the faithful, asking them to truthfully disclose their caste identity wherever they feel comfortable, but to ensure they declare their religion as Christian. Members have been advised to fully cooperate with census personnel and keep Aadhaar cards linked to their mobile numbers ready for OTP verification during the process.
Archbishop Machado has directed every parish and church to make clear announcements about the census and mobilise volunteers from among youth groups, laity, women’s associations, and parish organisations to assist families. He emphasised that no member of the community should be left out of the survey.
Calling the exercise both a constitutional duty and a step towards justice and equity, the Archbishop appealed to the Christian community to participate responsibly. “A fair and complete census will ensure that welfare measures reach all communities of Karnataka,” he said.
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Hassan: Two young men die in two-wheeler head-on collision in Channarayapatna
Hassan: Two young men reportedly died in a head-on collision between a scooter and a bike near the Doderi guard gate in Channarayapatna taluk of the district on Tuesday.
The deceased have been identified as Ramesh (23) of Mattighatta village and Purushottam (26) of M. Honnenahalli village.
Ramesh and Kiran were riding a scooter when the bike driven by Purushottam, coming from the opposite direction, collided with them.
Ramesh is learnt to have succumbed to his injuries at the spot.
While the biker, Purushottam, was also seriously injured and died after failing to respond to treatment.
Kiran, who was on the scooter, sustained serious injuries and is undergoing treatment at Hassan District Hospital.
Hirisave police visited the site, registered a case, and are conducting further investigation.
