Archbishop Chinnappa Highlights Minority Welfare Measures Ahead of Tamil Nadu Polls

Tamil Nadu, April 17, 2026: As Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections draw near, the question of minority welfare has gained renewed prominence, with Archbishop A. M. Chinnappa of Madras Mylapore acknowledging a series of initiatives undertaken by the state government in support of the Christian community over the past five years.

Addressing a press conference, Archbishop Chinnappa expressed appreciation to Chief Minister M. K. Stalin for what he described as consistent efforts to uphold the rights of minority communities. He noted that the administration had extended support through grants for the maintenance and renovation of churches, facilitation of pilgrimages to Jerusalem, and provision of burial grounds where needed.

The Archbishop also underscored the granting of permanent minority status to Christian educational institutions, a move he said ensures administrative autonomy and strengthens their capacity to serve society.

Highlighting their broader social role, he pointed out that a significant proportion of students—over 75 percent—enrolled in these institutions belong to the majority community.

In addition, he referred to government schemes that assist in the celebration of Christian festivals, provide support to hostel students from minority backgrounds, and encourage the formation of Christian welfare associations in districts such as Karur, Madurai, and Theni.

Clarifying his stance, Archbishop Chinnappa said his observations were intended to reflect the wider contribution of minority institutions to the state’s educational and social development, rather than to advocate for any single group.

At the same time, he expressed support for the leadership of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, voicing hope that the present administration would continue to guide and assist minority communities in the years ahead.

Courtesy: Sun News