Archbishop Peter Machado Leads Interfaith Peace Rally for Justice, Dignity and Harmony in Bengaluru

BENGALURU: In a strong expression of unity and shared responsibility, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore, led a Peace Rally at Freedom Park, Bengaluru, on Thursday, 12 November 2026. Christian, Muslim, Dalit, farmers’, human-rights and civil-society representatives gathered under the banner of the Voice of Minorities and the Oppressed Sections of Karnataka, urging the State Government to fulfil the commitments made in its 2023 election manifesto. The gathering conveyed a clear message that peace, justice and human dignity are shared responsibilities that transcend religious and social boundaries.

Archbishop Peter Machado's leadership gave the rally a significant pastoral and moral dimension. Standing alongside leaders from different communities, he reaffirmed the Church's commitment to religious freedom, human dignity and harmony among people of all faiths. Archbishop Emeritus Most Rev. Dr. Bernard Moras and Auxiliary Bishop Rt. Rev. Joseph Soosainathan also participated, along with several Church leaders and representatives of other communities. Reflecting on the responsibility to stand for what is right, Archbishop Machado emphasised, "Who is responsible? Not the State, but my conscience." His words highlighted that the responsibility to uphold justice and human dignity begins with every individual.

Addressing the concerns of minority communities, the Archbishop made a strong appeal for equality and constitutional dignity. He affirmed, "We are not second-class people; we are citizens of India. We are not dangerous for India." He reminded the gathering that people of every religion and community have an equal place in the nation and contribute to its progress. He also highlighted the Church's contribution to society through its educational and social institutions, hospitals, orphanages and old-age homes. "We are serving society through our institutions, hospitals, orphanages and old-age homes," he emphasised, underlining that the Church's mission is rooted in service, compassion and care for humanity.

A major concern raised during the rally was the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022, commonly known as the anti-conversion law. The Archbishop and participating groups called upon the Government to fulfil its earlier assurance regarding the withdrawal of the legislation. The memorandum submitted to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah sought its complete repeal, the withdrawal of cases registered under the Act and protection for lawful religious gatherings, prayer and worship. The appeal also emphasised the importance of safeguarding freedom of conscience and the constitutional right of every individual to profess and practise their faith. The rally further highlighted concerns relating to minority welfare, the restoration of the earlier four per cent reservation under Category 2B for eligible Muslim communities, effective measures against hate speech and hate crimes, and greater support for disadvantaged sections.

Giving special attention to the farming community, Archbishop Machado expressed his solidarity with farmers and their struggles. He called upon society to recognise their contribution and respect their needs, stating, "We salute our farmers and respect them and their needs." The gathering also called for greater attention to farmers' welfare, livelihood security and the protection of marginalised communities. Emphasising the importance of collective action, the Archbishop observed, "Crisis brings us together." This message captured the spirit of the rally, where people from different faiths and backgrounds came together not because of their differences, but because of their shared concern for peace, justice and the common good. The organisers urged the Government to take time-bound action on the memorandum and address the concerns during the forthcoming winter session of the Karnataka Legislature at Belagavi.

For the Archdiocese of Bangalore, the rally was an expression of the Church's continuing mission to promote peace, justice, fraternity and the common good. Faith must find expression not only in prayer and worship but also through compassion, solidarity and concern for society. Archbishop Peter Machado's participation highlighted the importance of standing together across religious and social boundaries. The gathering concluded with a collective appeal for meaningful action and greater understanding among communities. Its message extended beyond the demands presented that day: Different faiths, one humanity; different communities, one shared responsibility to build a society rooted in peace, justice and dignity.