Today, On 22nd January, The Chhattisgarh government informed the Supreme Court that allowing a Christian man’s burial in a graveyard designated for Scheduled Tribe Hindus could lead to tensions. Highlighting concerns, it argued this reflects religious discrimination, signaling converts are excluded even in death. The Supreme Court, reserving its verdict, directed the state to ensure Christians have an alternative burial ground without interference. The decision aims to balance communal harmony and burial rights.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court recently held a hearing over a dispute concerning the burial of a Christian man from a Scheduled Tribe (ST) community in his family’s native village burial ground. The case sparked heated arguments between Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the State of Chhattisgarh, and Senior Advocate Colin Gonsalves, who appeared for the petitioner, Ramesh Bhaghel.
The Supreme Court criticized the Chhattisgarh government over a Christian man’s plea to bury his pastor father in their village graveyard, as villagers aggressively opposed and police threatened legal action. The pastor’s body has remained in a mortuary since January 7, sparking outrage. The court has sought the state’s response, questioning the inaction and strange orders from lower authorities.
