Indian church leaders meet Bishops of England and Wales, discuss Dalit plight

London – Indian church leaders met with the representatives of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales and the Pontifical Mission Societies, discussed with them the plight of Dalit Christians and resolved to work closely for the oppressed Christian minorities in India.

Archbishop Marampudi Joji of Hyderabad Archdiocese called for further co–operation, solidarity and support from the Bishops of England and Wales following a successful conference on Dalit Christian rights organized by international Dalit advocacy group, Voice of Dalit International.

According to Mgr. Andrew Summersgill, general secretary of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales, the meeting was very “cordial and informative” and the Department of International Affairs have promised to take up some of the issues raised.

Fr. John Dale, national director of the Pontifical Mission Societies for England and Wales, said the meeting was taking place at a providential time as primary school pupils would be learning about Dalit Catholics as part of their religious education syllabus.

"There is a long–standing relationship between England and Wales and India," said Fr John Dale. "We are proud of our relationship and long may it continue."