Conversion beyond Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism results in Loss of SC Status: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court affirmed that individuals who convert to Christianity and continue to profess the faith cannot claim Scheduled Caste status or protections under the SC/ST Act. Upholding the Andhra Pradesh High Court’s ruling, the Court underscored that the constitutional bar is absolute, reinforcing a strict interpretation of eligibility for caste-based benefits.

The case arose from criminal proceedings where a complainant, who had converted to Christianity and was functioning as a pastor, invoked provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act alleging assault and caste-based abuse. The accused challenged the applicability of the Act, arguing that conversion disentitled the complainant from claiming Scheduled Caste status under the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950.

While the complainant relied on an existing caste certificate and witness statements to assert his SC identity, the High Court quashed the charges, prompting an appeal before the Supreme Court.

The Court examined the statutory framework and factual record, noting that caste recognition under the 1950 Order is restricted to persons professing Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism. It found that the complainant had not reconverted and had been actively practicing Christianity for years, including conducting regular prayer meetings. Emphasising the legal position, the Court observed, “This bar is absolute and admits no exception… A person can’t simultaneously profess and practice a religion other than the one specified… and claim membership of the Scheduled caste.”

It further clarified that the mere existence of a caste certificate does not override the constitutional bar. Dismissing the appeal, the Court upheld the High Court’s decision quashing the proceedings under the SC/ST Act.

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