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Religion
Christian Delegation Meets Kharge, Demands 1% Quota and Repeal of Karnataka Anti‑Conversion Law
✍️ Business Today
🗓 17 Sep 2026, 02:37 AM
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A delegation of Christian leaders met senior minister Basavaraj Kharge to press for a 1% reservation for Christians and the repeal of Karnataka's anti‑conversion legislation.
New Delhi – A group of Christian representatives convened with Union Minister Basavaraj Kharge on Thursday to articulate their community's demands. The delegation sought a statutory 1% reservation in government jobs and educational institutions for Christians, arguing that the community remains under‑represented.
The leaders also urged the minister to push for the revocation of Karnataka's anti‑conversion law, which they say curtails religious freedom and has been used to harass minority faiths. They presented data they claim shows a disproportionate impact on Christian households.
Kharge acknowledged the concerns, stating that the government will examine the quota proposal and the legal framework of the state law. He emphasized that any decision would require consensus within the cabinet and compliance with constitutional provisions.
The meeting concluded without a definitive timeline, but the delegation indicated it will continue to lobby both state and central authorities. Observers note that the issue could become a focal point in upcoming state elections, where minority votes are increasingly pivotal.
The Christian community's call for a quota and law repeal reflects broader debates across India about affirmative action and religious conversion statutes, with several states reviewing similar policies.
The leaders also urged the minister to push for the revocation of Karnataka's anti‑conversion law, which they say curtails religious freedom and has been used to harass minority faiths. They presented data they claim shows a disproportionate impact on Christian households.
Kharge acknowledged the concerns, stating that the government will examine the quota proposal and the legal framework of the state law. He emphasized that any decision would require consensus within the cabinet and compliance with constitutional provisions.
The meeting concluded without a definitive timeline, but the delegation indicated it will continue to lobby both state and central authorities. Observers note that the issue could become a focal point in upcoming state elections, where minority votes are increasingly pivotal.
The Christian community's call for a quota and law repeal reflects broader debates across India about affirmative action and religious conversion statutes, with several states reviewing similar policies.