By Matters India Reporter
Bengaluru, May 22, 2026: The Workers India Federation (WIF), the national organization of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India’s Office for Labour, elected new office bearers for 2026–2028 during its Annual General Body Meeting held May 18–19 at Subodhana, Bengaluru.
The meeting was inaugurated by Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore, who stressed the “urgent need to organize unorganized workers, particularly agricultural labourers, domestic workers, and migrant workers across states.” He urged empowerment at the grassroots level and offered prayers for the new leadership team.
Outgoing leaders were thanked by President Anthony Selvanathan, who welcomed the incoming Chairman, Bishop Vincent Paulos Kulapuravilai of Marthandom, and Vice-Chairmen Archbishop Prince Antony Panengadan of Shamshabad and Coadjutor Bishop Edward Baretto of Darjeeling.
Input sessions under the theme “Dignity in Labour: Building a Secure and Resilient Nation” produced a plan of action focusing on “empowering leadership from among unorganized workers,” expanding diocesan outreach, and promoting enrolment in social security schemes.
The newly elected office bearers include President Anthony Selvanathan, Vice President Sebastian Palamparambil, General Secretary Sameer Lakra, Joint Secretary Priti Rose Kullu, and Treasurer Joseph Varghese. Executive members are Feliza Goes, Selesta Lakra, Joy Gothuruth, K. Jesuraja, Father Shinto Abraham, Sister Dorothy Fernandez, and Father Victor Mundargi.
“Secured Worker … Strong Nation” was affirmed as the guiding vision.