Christians to observe 'black day' on Aug 10

Christians will observe Aug 10 as a 'black day' to mourn and express protest against the continuing discrimination of Dalit Christians in India.

Churches and Christian organisations across the country will hold special functions, including holding public meetings and hoisting a black flag as a mark of protest.

It was on August 10 1950 the then President of India issued the 'Constitution (Scheduled Caste Order 1950)' making reservation in education and jobs available to those from low-caste that follow Hinduism.

The Presidential Order 1950 barred Dalits to be members of Scheduled Caste if they chose any religion other than Hinduism.However, subsequent amendments were made to the Order in 1956 and 1990 providing for the inclusion of Sikhs and Buddhists respectively within the Scheduled Caste category.

"We want to continue our struggle for justice. It is hoped that the observance of Aug 10 as black day will be a step forward in conscientizing our own Christian communities on this concern," said Samuel Jayakumar, Secretary of Commission on Policy desk, NCCI.

"The Church of North India (CNI) has agreed to observe the black day with a flag hoist at their premises. The CNI general secretary, Alwan Masih and Archbishop of Delhi Vincent M. Concessao will lead the protest," informed Jayakumar.

The end of last month saw a massive hunger strike and Parliament march organised by CBCI, NCCI and NCDC condemning the UPA government's delay in giving equal status.

The July 25-28 event saw the participation of over 10,000 people including interfaith leaders, bishops, lay leaders and activists.

Christians demanded implementation of Ranganath Mishra Commission's report that recommended the inclusion of Dalit Christians and Muslims in the SC category.

There are about 20 million Dalit Christians in India.