In a landmark verdict, the Supreme Court ruled that converting from Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism to another faith like Christianity results in the automatic loss of Scheduled Caste (SC) status and related constitutional benefits. Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Manmohan emphasized that SC protections under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act apply only to those professing the specified religions at the time of an incident.
Case Background
The ruling stems from a 2021 Guntur district complaint by pastor Chinthada Anand, who alleged assault and caste slurs over his evangelical work. Despite holding an SC certificate, Anand had practiced Christianity for over a decade, conducting prayer meetings. Accused Akkala Rami Reddy challenged the SC/ST Act invocation, arguing Anand’s conversion disqualified him. The Andhra Pradesh High Court quashed proceedings on April 30, 2025, deeming the caste system “alien to Christianity” and certificate validity irrelevant post-conversion.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
Court’s Reasoning
The bench endorsed the HC, noting Anand showed no reconversion or caste re-acceptance. “Voluntary conversion and active practice of another faith disqualify SC entitlements,” it stated, referencing the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950. Possession of an uncancelled certificate doesn’t override professed religion, treating it as an administrative matter.
(This story has been published from a syndicated feed)
