Bishop highlights Christians’ contribution to society, urges govt. to end discrimination

Vijayawada Catholic Diocese Bishop Telagathoti Joseph Rajarao said that the services rendered by Christian missionaries in the fields of education and healthcare, even prior to India’s Independence, remain memorable and significant.

Participating in a ‘Run for Jesus’ rally, organised by the Federation of Churches and Christian Joint Forum in Vijayawada on Saturday morning, Rev. Joseph Rajarao highlighted the contributions of Christian institutions in serving leprosy patients, the poor, and orphans, and called upon governments to recognise these efforts instead of showing discrimination.

Expressing concern over the alleged erosion of Christian rights, the Bishop said that any infringement on their constitutional rights would not be tolerated. Emphasising that Christians are equal citizens of India, he urged authorities to uphold the rights guaranteed by the Constitution.

Monsignor Fr. Muvvala Prasad described the recent Supreme Court observations concerning Dalit Christians as unfortunate, questioning whether conversion changes one’s caste identity. He said the denial of reservation benefits to Dalit Christians has caused distress within the community.

Hundreds of devotees participated in the rally, which was flagged off from St. Paul’s Cathedral at 6 a.m. and concluded at CSI St. Paul’s Basilica Church near the State Guest House. The Bishop and other leaders lit ceremonial torches to mark the occasion.