Panel examining SC status for Dalits post-conversion gets a third extension
Indian Express·15h ago·Neutral
What Happened
The Centre extended the Balakrishnan Commission's tenure by two months until June 10, 2026, marking its third extension since October 2022. The commission examines granting Scheduled Caste status to people who converted to religions other than Hinduism, Christianity, Sikhism, or Buddhism. A March Supreme Court ruling stated SC status applies only to Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists, with conversion resulting in immediate loss of caste status. Dalit Christian and Muslim organizations have requested hearings before the commission.
Key Entities
K G BalakrishnanCommission of InquiryScheduled Caste statusMinistry of Social Justice and EmpowermentSupreme CourtDalit ChristiansNational Council of Dalit ChristiansPasmanda Muslim Samaj