Items of interest

with contributions from Jeff Hansei, Bob Harvey

"Dalits [the 'untouchables' of Hindu society] in India have a long history of oppression and discrimination. To improve the quality of life for their people, Dalit leaders are calling on them to reject the ... caste system and embrace a faith that will restore their dignity and freedom. ...

"The Dalit mass exodus from the caste system began in November 2001, in Delhi, when tens of thousands officially became Buddhists. However, Dalits across India are become Christians in as great or greater numbers, say Indian Christians.

"The anti-conversion law passed in October in Tamil Nadu is viewed by many Dalit leaders as a move to reinforce the caste system. Anyone convicted of converting a Dalit faces up to four years in prison and a 100,000-rupee fine."

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