3,000 Christians Stage Silent March in Shivamogga, Demand Repeal of Anti-Conversion Act

Shivamogga, November 12, 2026: Nearly 3,000 Christians from different denominations and rites staged a silent procession in Shivamogga on Thursday, demanding the repeal of Karnataka's Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022, commonly known as the Anti-Conversion Act.

Organised by the All Karnataka United Christian Forum for Human Rights (KUCFH), the demonstration brought together priests, pastors, religious men and women and lay faithful from Shivamogga, Davangere and Chitradurga districts.

The procession began at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga, with participation from the Latin Diocese of Shivamogga and the Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara communities of the Bhadravathi and Puttur dioceses.

Fr Simon Pinto, president of KUCFH, welcomed the participants and explained the purpose of the demonstration, stressing the demand for repeal of the legislation. He also outlined guidelines to ensure the procession remained peaceful and orderly. Msgr Stany D'Souza, representing the Diocese of Shivamogga, led the opening prayer.

Msgr Joseph Thotankara, Vicar General of the Diocese of Bhadravathi, flagged off the procession by waving the Papal Flag. Pastor P. D. Yesudass, president of the District Pastors' Association, and other Christian leaders also participated.

The procession passed through B. H. Road, Amir Ahmad Circle, Gopi Circle and Court Circle before reaching the Deputy Commissioner's office. Banners and placards carried by participants highlighted their demand for repeal of the law and protection of religious freedom.

At the Deputy Commissioner's office, Fr Veeresh Moras, Public Relations Officer of the Diocese of Shivamogga, explained the community's concerns regarding the legislation and outlined the demands contained in a memorandum addressed to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Msgr Stany D'Souza and other religious representatives submitted the memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner, who received it on behalf of the state government.

The demonstration brought together Christian communities across different ecclesial traditions in a joint appeal for the protection of constitutional rights, religious freedom and equal dignity for all citizens.

By Catholic Connect Reporter