In a significant ruling, the Andhra Pradesh High Court recently declared that “the caste system is alien to Christianity,” while hearing a case of a caste atrocity against a Dalit pastor. The statement underscores an important point: while the entrenched practices of caste have indeed permeated into Indian Christianity, it is still seen as a Hinduism-only issue. The court’s remarks once again bring to the fore how the complexities surrounding caste are still misunderstood in India’s diverse religious landscape. Therefore, caste among Indian Christians has largely been understudied, and the state and its institutions remain unaware of its impact. It is, therefore, imperative to draw our attention to this long-standing issue.
At the forefront of addressing this issue is Rev. G. Bhoopalan, the General Secretary and CEO of the Baptist Union of Tamil Nadu (BUTN). He has been instrumental in shedding light on this overlooked aspect, bringing to the fore the ongoing struggle against caste discrimination within the church. This narrative centres around Rev. Bhoopalan’s journey and his fight against caste hierarchy in the churches of Vellore in the state of Tamil Nadu.
Rev. Bhoopalan’s journey began in a Hindu family, where he was raised amidst its customs and beliefs. However, a transformative encounter led him to discover Christianity and the enlightening teachings of Christ. This revelation ignited a passion within him, prompting his commitment to the Christian faith and its missions. Yet, despite his devotion, he found himself confronted with the harsh reality that Dalit Christians in Vellore and Ranipet continue to endure caste-based discrimination in their daily lives—a stark contradiction to the inclusive message of Christianity.
Discrimination takes many shapes and forms, leaving deep scars on communities and individuals alike. In places of worship, such as churches, there’s a troubling inequality that marginalises people from ‘lower castes’. Educational institutions often overlook the needs of these individuals, leading to neglect that stifles their potential. Job opportunities remain a distant dream for many, as systemic biases keep them from securing equitable employment. Social interactions, too, are laden with exclusions that deny a sense of belonging.
The Quest for Justice
Rev. Bhoopalan sheds light on the insidious practices that underlie this discrimination. From the forced relocation of church services to new, often less favourable venues—often without any financial support—these actions reflect a broader disregard for the affected communities. The consequences of this discrimination are profound, trapping individuals in a relentless cycle of poverty and social exclusion that profoundly disrupts their lives.
Access to leadership roles is fundamentally unequal; positions of authority are typically reserved for members of the Nadar caste, a dominant caste, while Dalits are relegated to subordinate roles. This imbalance creates stark injustices, such as the expulsion of those who dare to voice their opposition to such discriminatory practices. In congregational settings, many face the harsh reality of being treated as second-class citizens, systematically denied opportunities to ascend to positions of importance and influence.
The limited access to leadership positions not only perpetuates a hierarchy rooted in caste but also diminishes the sense of identity and self-worth among those affected. This social exclusion has far-reaching implications, impacting mental well-being and fostering feelings of isolation and despair. Ultimately, the consequences of these practices reverberate throughout the community, shaping their collective experience and undermining their potential for growth and fulfilment.
Rev. Bhoopalan, having endured various forms of discrimination and marginalisation within the church, made the courageous decision to leave and forge a new path. He returned to his hometown of Kattalai Village, where he began to gather like-minded individuals seeking a sense of belonging and spiritual community. However, the dominant communities in the area, along with members of the Evangelical Church of India (ECI)—which had once been his spiritual home—began to view his efforts with hostility. They disrupted his meetings and issued threats, demanding that he abandon his mission.
As he sought to build this new community, he found himself under constant surveillance. Followers of the ECI began to shadow him wherever he went, their watchful eyes filled with suspicion. Threatening phone calls plagued his home, filling his evenings with fear and anxiety. Despite enduring relentless pressure and intimidation, Rev. Bhoopalan stands resolutely firm in his convictions, bravely confronting a storm of verbal and physical violence aimed at him. His unwavering commitment to his beliefs and his community is evident as he actively files petitions with Tamil Nadu officials, including the local police station, the Deputy Tahsildar of Nemili Taluk, the Block Development Officer, and the District Collector.
A significant precedent that underscores the seriousness of these violations was set on June 23, 2023. In W.P. No. 5254 of 2023, the Madras High Court issued a directive to the Revenue Divisional Officer in Arakkonam to demolish an ECI church building due to violations. This judicial ruling clearly highlights the unlawful nature of ECI’s construction activities and fearlessly advocates for fundamental rights, such as the freedom of choice, worship, and the right to live peacefully.
Rev. Bhoopalan’s fight against the systemic oppression inflicted by non-Dalit communities—who have long marginalised and silenced Dalit voices—has sparked a powerful wave of solidarity among Dalit Christian pastors and believers in Vellore and Ranipet. Through his tireless efforts, he has united individuals in Vellore and Ranipet, fostering a transformative sense of community. As part of this movement, Rev. Bhoopalan and the National Dalit Christian Watch (NDCW) successfully organised a significant state-level meeting, where the challenges faced by Dalit Christians in these regions were brought to the forefront. This gathering became a vital space for dialogue and empowerment, highlighting the struggles and aspirations of the Dalit Christian community.
Rev. Bhoopalan’s relentless fight for the right to freely worship and gather serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, resonating deeply with Dalit Christians across India. His journey is not just a personal battle; it symbolises the broader quest for dignity and justice.
