Tribal outfit demands ban on quota for converted Christians

Converted Christians must be prohibited from enjoying the reservation benefits to people of SC categories, demanded an organisation working for the welfare of tribals.

Janajati Surakhya Manch (JSM) and former MP Moren Singh Purty alleged that converted Christians were illegally using the reservation meant for Scheduled Tribes.

Most of the tribal converts are enjoying both Scheduled Tribes and minority status, the Government has turned a blind eye to these illegal and unconstitutional activities, they said.

Communities listed as Scheduled Tribes in the Constitution can avail from the 7.5 per cent seats reserved in government and public sector jobs and educational institutions for them.

"We are of firm opinion that traditions, rituals and customs are inseparable parts of the faith and religion. Tribals do not accept converts as members of their communities. We demand that the Centre respond without any further delay," Janjati Suraksha Manch (JSM) convenor Harsh Chouhan told a press conference.

Calling it unconstitutional, Chouhan continued, "To the great surprise and misfortune of these tribal communities, the converted folks were also deemed to be included in the ST list... This is unconstitutional. The converts are getting dual benefits as STs and as minorities which is against objective of the Constitution."

A countrywide signature campaign of about one crore schedule tribes would be launched from March this year against the discrimination of majority of tribals, Chouhan said.

A memorandum by the group will be submitted to President Pratibha Patil in June, recommending an amendment in the constitution.

According to estimates, around 20 per cent of India's 24-million Christian community is from tribal backgrounds.