Christian Youth Pledge to Challenge Caste Discrimination

JAMMU, October 27, 2026 — Around 35 Christian youth from four regions of India have pledged to challenge caste discrimination in churches, educational institutions and society at a leadership training programme organised by the National Dalit Christian Watch (NDCW) in Jammu.

Held from October 23 to 26 at the Pastoral Centre of Maitri Bhawan, the programme brought together participants aged 15 to 35 from Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat, Telangana and Delhi to discuss caste oppression, leadership, equality and human dignity.

NDCW General Secretary Sister Manju Devarapalli introduced participants to the history of caste in India, the experiences of Dalit Christians and efforts within the Church to combat discrimination. Participants also shared personal experiences of caste-based exclusion in schools, colleges, churches and communities.

Dr Aksa Rao, head of the English Department at Government Degree College, Akhnoor, urged young people to practise servant leadership, drawing on the example of Jesus Christ.

“Our role model is Jesus Christ himself,” Rao said, calling on participants to empower disadvantaged people and help them become leaders.

Senior journalist Vikram Mukka highlighted the “double discrimination” faced by Dalit Christians because of their caste and religious identity. He urged participants to recognise systemic barriers and build skills and professional networks to improve access to opportunities.

“Hard work alone would not suffice in a system that is rigged against you [Dalits],” said Mukka, coordinator of NDCW’s Dalit Christian Digest.

Fr Charles Davis, director of the Bioethics Forum of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India, said human dignity must remain central to the promotion of human rights. He warned that differences in roles and responsibilities should not become hierarchies that undermine the equal worth of individuals.

“Human dignity is an intrinsic value God endowed us all with,” Davis said.

Founded in 2016 by theologians, human rights defenders, lawyers and development consultants, NDCW works to challenge caste oppression within Christian communities and wider society. The training was part of its efforts to prepare young people to become leaders in the struggle for equality and justice.

By Sr. Manjula Devarapalli