By Matters India Reporter
BENGALURU, November 13, 2026: The Voice of Minorities and the Oppressed Sections of Karnataka organised a peaceful public convention at Freedom Park in Bengaluru on November 12 drawing an attendance of 1,500 people.
The gathering brought together Christian and Muslim religious leaders, Dalit organisations, farmers’ groups, human rights activists and representatives of various civil society organizations.
The participants convened to demand the protection of constitutional rights, religious freedom, equality, dignity and social justice.
Additionally, the convention called on the Government of Karnataka to fulfil commitments made during the 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections, specifically concerning minority rights and the protection of vulnerable communities.
Father Vinay Kumar delivered the welcome address to open the programme, which was followed by introductory remarks from Father Arun Louis and Yaseen Malpe. Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore and Jamiat Ulama Karnataka Vice President Mufti R. Mohammed Hisain Sab addressed the gathering.
Their speeches highlighted the importance of safeguarding religious freedom, constitutional values and minority community rights.
Four major demands were presented to the Government of Karnataka during the convention:
- Repeal of the Anti-Conversion Law: The convention demanded the repeal of the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022, fulfilling the State Cabinet’s decision from June 2023, along with the withdrawal of cases filed under the Act to protect constitutional freedom of religion and conscience.
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Action Against Hate Speech and Hate Crimes: Effective legal and administrative measures must be taken against hate speech, communal incitement, attacks on religious minorities and mob violence, regardless of the religion or identity of the responsible parties.
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Repeal of the Cattle Slaughter Act: The repeal of the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Act, 2020, was requested to safeguard the livelihoods of farmers, cattle traders, transporters and affected workers.
Speakers emphasized that these demands remain rooted in the Constitution of India—which guarantees liberty, equality, fraternity and freedom of religion to every citizen—rather than acting against any community or religion.
They stressed that the traditional religious harmony and social justice of Karnataka must be protected and strengthened.
A memorandum detailing these four major demands was submitted to the Chief Minister of Karnataka at the conclusion of the event, urging the state government to honour electoral commitments and provide a definite, time-bound course of action.
The convention concluded by reaffirming the collective dedication of religious minorities, Dalits, farmers, workers and civil society organizations to peacefully unite for human dignity, equality, justice and constitutional rights.