Archbishop Peter Machado Calls for Dialogue and Justice for Student Protesters

Bengaluru, July 24, 2026: Archbishop Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore and Chairman of the All Karnataka United Christian Forum for Human Rights (AKUCFHR), has called on the Government to initiate meaningful dialogue with students protesting in New Delhi, expressing concern over growing anxiety among young people about their future.

In a statement issued on July 23, the AKUCFHR expressed solidarity with the protesting students and said recent developments surrounding the demonstrations had deeply saddened the Christian community.

Archbishop Machado said the concerns raised by students should be addressed with compassion, understanding and sincere engagement rather than indifference.

The statement said the large participation of students and young people in the protests reflected a deep sense of uncertainty about their future. Archbishop Machado stressed that young people are not only the future of the country but also one of its greatest strengths today, and their voices must therefore be heard with sensitivity and respect.

The AKUCFHR expressed disappointment that, despite considerable time having passed, meaningful dialogue had not yet been initiated to address the concerns of the students. It urged the Government to rise above other considerations and engage with the student community in a spirit of openness, sincerity and mutual respect.

According to the forum, a peaceful and just resolution to the situation can be achieved only through dialogue and a genuine willingness to listen.

Reaffirming its solidarity with the students, the AKUCFHR said it supported their legitimate pursuit of justice, dignity and a secure future. It also commended the unity, discipline and determination demonstrated by the young protesters, describing these qualities as a source of hope for the nation.

At the same time, the forum appealed to all those involved to continue pursuing their demands through peaceful and non-violent means and to maintain mutual respect throughout the process.

Speaking on behalf of the Archdiocese of Bangalore and the wider Christian community, Archbishop Machado assured his prayers for all those responsible for resolving the situation. He prayed that the authorities would be granted wisdom, guidance and grace to ensure that justice prevails and peace is restored.

The statement expressed hope that every young person in the country would be able to look to the future with renewed confidence and optimism.

The AKUCFHR represents a broad coalition of Christian denominations in Karnataka, including the Roman Catholic Church, Church of South India, Lutheran, Methodist, Mar Thoma, Malankara Orthodox, Jacobite Syrian Orthodox, Baptist, Assemblies of God and Seventh-day Adventist communities, among others.

By Catholic Connect Reporter