By Matters India Reporter
BENGALURU, September 15, 2026: A high‑level Christian delegation led by Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore met All‑India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge on Sept. 14 to press for urgent action on issues affecting the Christian community in Karnataka.
The delegation, which included bishops and senior clergy, raised demands ranging from repeal of the state’s controversial anti‑conversion law to greater representation in government bodies.
The meeting, held at Kharge’s residence in Bengaluru, was also attended by Priyanka Kharge, Karnataka’s home minister. Delegates emphasized that the concerns were long‑standing and required immediate intervention to safeguard constitutional freedoms and ensure equitable participation in state governance.
The first demand centered on the repeal of the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Bill, 2021, widely known as the Anti‑Conversion Bill.
Church leaders argued that the law infringes on the right to practice and propagate faith, disproportionately affecting Christians.
“The delegation expressed its concerns regarding the provisions of the legislation and its implications for the Christian community,” the press release stated.
Delegates also sought nomination of a Christian representative to the Karnataka Legislative Council, stressing that such representation would provide a platform to voice community concerns in the legislative process.
In addition, they called for a one percent exclusive reservation for Christians under the Backward Class classification, citing socio‑economic challenges faced by marginalized sections of the community.
Another key demand was adequate representation on government boards, corporations and statutory bodies. Leaders argued that fair inclusion would allow Christians to contribute more effectively to public administration and state development.
Kharge listened attentively and engaged in detailed discussions, acknowledging the importance of addressing the issues.
He assured the delegation that he would raise the matters with state leaders and provide directions for their consideration.
The delegation expressed appreciation for his patient hearing and voiced hope that the concerns would receive due attention from the government.
The group included Archbishop Machado, Bishop Peter Paul of Mangalore, Bishop Francis Serrao of Mysore, Jesuit Father Arun Lewis, lay leaders Praveen Peter, Anthony Vikram, and J.A. Kanthraj, spokesperson of the Bangalore Archdiocese.
The meeting underscores growing pressure on Karnataka’s leadership to address minority concerns amid ongoing debates over religious freedom and representation.
For the Christian community, the outcome could shape both their civic participation and their constitutional rights in the state.