Fr. Prakash Louis Receives SAHAS Award for His Dedication to Marginalised and Migrant Workers

Patna, 6 March, 2025: On the occasion of the International Women’s Day celebration ‘Ojaswini 2025’, the Patna Women’s College Alumni Association (PWCAA) will confer the SAHAS Award on Fr. Dr. Prakash Louis S.J. for his contributions to the development of the marginalised and the migrant workers and his commitment to society. The award ceremony will take place on 8 March 2025 at 12:00 noon in the Open-Air Stage Hall, Patna Women’s College.  

Fr. Prakash Louis, a Jesuit priest from Tamil Nadu, has dedicated nearly 25 years to serving marginalised communities in North India. Instead of pursuing prestigious academic roles, he chose to work among women, children, youths, Dalits, Tribals, minorities and backward castes. He also served as the executive director of the Indian Social Institute in both New Delhi and Bengaluru, further strengthening his commitment to social justice and empowerment.  

“I committed myself to being with the people and working with them,” he shared in an interview with Catholic Connect. His motivation stems from his own humble background, Constitutional and Biblical values. “When I saw the struggles of villages in North India, I could relate to them. I wanted to assist them in any way I could,” he said.  

An acclaimed author, Fr. Prakash has written extensively on Dalit, Tribal, minority rights and social issues. His notable works include 'Catholic Social Teachings: Towards a Catholic Faith in Action', 'Fr. Stan Swamy: An Anti-National or Martyr?', 'Rights of the Dalits, Tribals and Minorities in India' and 'People Power: Naxalite Movement in Bihar'. These are also translated into Hindi. He frequently contributes to journals covering Christian, social, economic, and political topics.  

Holding a doctorate in Social Movements of India, Fr. Prakash has closely studied migration trends. “In Bihar alone, out of 12 crore people, 2 crore have migrated—most due to distress, settling in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh,” he explained. To support them, he actively engages in advocacy and relief initiatives. In January, he held discussions with the Bishops of Tamil Nadu in Madurai, with Faith-Based and Secular Organisations in Tirupur, Salem, and Chennai to strengthen the Migrant Network to address migrant labourers rights. His network spans India, ensuring assistance is available when needed.

He recounted a recent case of a migrant worker from Odisha who was assaulted in Bengaluru. Through his outreach, the Avila Convent sisters quickly provided food, clothing, and gathered support from others to help him return home.

Fr. Prakash typically avoids public recognition. “This award is not for me—it belongs to all those who stand with the marginalised,” he said. He works closely with Patna Women's College, which helped 500 families during Koshi floods by providing relief and assistance.  

On the same day, in collaboration with the Carmel School and the Bihar Domestic Workers’ Union, he will host a gathering of 200–300 migrant domestic workers to celebrate International Women’s Day on campus. Later, he will address over 100 Catholic youth at the National AICUF Meet, encouraging them to continue the mission of justice and empowerment.  

On March 11, he, along with Regenerative Bihar and Patna Women’s College, will organize "Students for Climate Resilience."

This award honours the truth that, in the spirit of Fr. Prakash Louis, even one person's unwavering commitment can inspire hope and transform countless lives.

By Catholic Connect Reporter