India’s opposition party promises to uphold minority rights

India’s main opposition Congress party has promised in its manifesto for the upcoming general elections to protect the rights of religious minorities, including Christians, to practice their faith and enjoy freedom of choice.

The election manifesto released on April 5 said the Congress “will respect and uphold the fundamental right to practice one’s faith and the rights guaranteed to religious minorities” as enshrined in the Indian constitution.

It further promised to protect minorities' rights to choice of dress, food, language, and personal laws and ensured them a fair share of opportunities in education, healthcare, and employment “without discrimination.”

The Congress also promised steps to ensure the economic empowerment of minorities, which was a necessary step for India to realize its full potential, the manifesto said.

“For Christians, practicing their faith has become dangerous since the year 2014,” said A C Michael, a former member of the Delhi state government’s minority commission.

“We need a government that respects the guarantees provided to the minorities in the Constitution of India,” Michael said.

Father Babu Joseph, former spokesperson of the Catholic Bishops Conference of India, welcomed the Congress’ “commitment to honor the rights of minorities” and hoped it would instill “confidence in their minds for a more just and fair future.”