Vellore Diocese Holds Minority Rights Awareness Programme for Clergy and Religious

Vellore, Jan 30, 2026:

The Diocese of Vellore organised an awareness meeting on Minority Rights and Government Welfare Benefits on January 30, bringing together clergy and religious leaders to strengthen understanding of constitutional protections, social justice concerns, and state welfare schemes available to minority communities.

The programme was held in the presence of Bishop P. Ambrose of Vellore and Fr. M. John Nicholas, and featured a keynote address by Dr. C. Joe Arun, SSJ, noted scholar and advocate for minority rights and social empowerment.

Priests of the Vellore Diocese and members of the Conference of Religious India (CRI), Vellore Diocese, participated actively, reflecting the Church’s commitment to promoting justice, awareness, and advocacy among vulnerable communities.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Arun highlighted key constitutional safeguards and government welfare programmes, noting that lack of awareness often prevents eligible families from accessing benefits meant for them. He urged Church leaders and institutions to serve as facilitators at the grassroots, helping communities navigate procedures and claim their lawful entitlements.

Bishop Ambrose emphasised the Church’s prophetic responsibility to stand with the marginalised and uphold human dignity. He called on priests and religious to remain united and proactive in addressing challenges faced by minority communities, particularly in the areas of education, employment, and social security.

Fr. John Nicholas stressed the importance of collaboration among diocesan institutions, religious congregations, and civil authorities, noting that coordinated efforts are essential to close gaps in access to welfare services.

The session concluded with an interactive discussion during which participants shared pastoral experiences, identified obstacles in implementing welfare schemes, and explored practical strategies for advocacy and awareness at parish and institutional levels.

The meeting reaffirmed the Diocese of Vellore’s ongoing commitment to minority rights, social justice, and inclusive development, as it continues to promote legal awareness, community participation, and empowerment of minority communities across the region.