‘Day of Mourning’ on 10th August 2018

The National Council of Churches in India – Dalit and Tribal/Adivasi Concerns observed the Day of Mourning on 10^th of August 2018 as a protest against the infamous Presidential Order 1950 (August 10^th) Paragraph 3, which excludes Dalit Muslims and Dalit Christians from the Scheduled Caste (SC) status, and the related affirmative action benefits of the Government.

Thus the Day of Mourning was a time to express  solidarity with the struggles and problems of  Dalit Muslims and Dalit Christians in  contemporary India where they are deprived of their rights.  On this day the NCCI staff gathered on the lawn of the NCCI premises, displaying posters expressing their protest. This act was not only an expression of mourning  but also an urgent appeal to the authorities to repeal the unconstitutional law that violates the rights of the ones who are genuinely in need of it. A short speech was delivered by Mr. Saurabh Khobragade, NCCI Intern of Dalit and Tribal/Adivasi Concerns, regarding the significance of the protest.  He not only cited the infamous Presidential Order that was signed on 10th August 1950, but also emphasized how concerned people should  respond in times like this – to be critical  about the unjust ways of the authorities, to relate justly and responsibly  with our neighbours in society, and to be responsible citizens and  stewards in the service  of God. The observance of the Day of Mourning  concluded with a word of prayer remembering the suffering of  marginalized people, and seeking  God’s  intervention in the struggles for justice and inclusivity in the society and country at large.