Dr J. Purnachandra Rao demands SC status for Dalit Christians

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

Former DGP and AIBSP National Coordinator Dr J. Purnachandra Rao on Monday demanded Scheduled Caste status for Relli, Mala and Madiga Christians saying conversion has not removed caste-based discrimination faced by Dalit Christians. Addressing a meeting organised by the Christian Coordination Council in Visakhapatnam, he said caste still persists in churches, villages and social relations and denial of SC status violates constitutional spirit.

He alleged political dominance of ruling castes affecting BCs, SCs, STs and Muslims and cited data showing high urban slum populations in Andhra Pradesh and Visakhapatnam. He criticised governments over housing delays in RH Colony and urged authorities to provide basic amenities, jobs and welfare support immediately. Referring to Census 2011 he said a significant portion of India’s urban population lives in slums with Andhra Pradesh and Visakhapatnam reporting higher percentages reflecting inequality.

He added that India’s economic claims contrast with reality noting that countries like Japan have minimal slum habitation and said pending Supreme Court petitions on Dalit Christian SC status remain unresolved. He urged district administration, MLAs and MPs to ensure land pattas, housing, drinking water, healthcare, skill development and measures against substance abuse in affected colonies. He said coordinated action is essential for long-term development and youth employment generation in marginalised communities while participants shared concerns during the meeting.