Bengaluru Archbishop welcomes Karnataka government’s move to repeal anti-conversion law
Bengaluru: Archbishop of Bengaluru diocese, Dr. Peter Machado on Thursday commended and welcomed the Karnataka government's move to repeal the Anti-Conversion law that was passed by the previous BJP government. Machado who also serves as the President of the Karnataka Region Catholic Bishops' Council and All Karnataka United Forum for Christian Human Rights, has expressed his appreciation on behalf of the entire Christian community in the state, read a press release.
"The repeal of this highly contentious bill stands as a commendable and crucial step towards upholding fundamental rights," stated the Archbishop, highlighting that it supports the unwavering stance adopted by the Church and the Christian community.
He further elaborated, stating, "It reaffirms our unwavering belief that this legislation not only infringed upon the freedom of religion for individuals but also directly contradicted the provisions enshrined in Article 25 of the Indian Constitution. Article 25 guarantees the freedom to practice, profess, and propagate any religion, which is an indispensable right for maintaining a society that embraces diversity and pluralism. Christians will steadfastly continue their endeavors within the framework of the Indian Constitution, serving the state and the nation, while extending their outreach to all individuals, regardless of caste and creed, with a special emphasis on uplifting the impoverished and marginalized."
According to the Bishop, the anti-conversion bill had led to an increase in attacks on Christians, its provisions also encouraged fringe elements to cause harm to the community . Its presence fueled doubts, mistrust, and disharmony between communities. The Archbishop expressed hope in other states following the suit to promote harmony among the societ.
Recognizing the complexities involved in repealing a law, the Christian community remains hopeful and confident that all concerned parties will extend the necessary support at various stages of the process. This collaborative effort is crucial to ensure a smooth transition and the complete withdrawal of the anti-conversion bill, the release added.
Expressing his gratitude, Machado said he appreciates the government of Karnataka for its courage and decisiveness in repealing the act. “The acknowledgment of the concerns raised by the Christian Community and the subsequent action taken to rectify the situation are commendable.” This progressive step will contribute to fostering an atmosphere of religious harmony, tolerance, and respect for all faiths within the state, he added.
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Second PUC results: Life convict clears exam with distinction, DGP lauds effort
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Bengaluru: A life convict lodged in Ballari Central Prison has successfully cleared the second PUC examination.
Ashok Kumar S, who appeared for the examination under prison escort, secured 481 marks out of 600, registering 80.1 percent.
Director General of Police (Prisons and Correctional Services), Alok Kumar (IPS), shared the development on his official ‘X’ handle, commending the inmate’s achievement.
In his post, he stated that it was heartening to see a life convict score over 80 percent in the examination, adding that the inmate had appeared from Ballari Central Prison under escort.
It’s heartening to see that one of our life convict prisoners Ashok has obtained 80.1% marks in PUC exam. He appeared under Prison escort from Ballari Central Prison for his exams.
— alok kumar (@alokkumar6994) April 9, 2026
Glad to see that Walls of the prison has not subdued his hopes for a better future. pic.twitter.com/Nzlcy076SR
He further noted that the achievement reflected that the “walls of the prison have not subdued his hopes for a better future.”
Alok Kumar in his post also shared the result sheet of Ashok.
The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) declared the second PUC results for 2026 on April 9.
A total of 6,32,200 students appeared for the examination across all streams, of whom 5,46,698 passed, recording an overall pass percentage of 86.48 per cent.
