Bengaluru, 15 March

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) has announced a Day of Prayer and Fasting on 22 March. This call to action comes amid concerns regarding the nation's growing social and political issues.

According to a press release from Rev. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bengaluru, the CBCI, criticises the influence of populism, polarization, and a perceived erosion of democratic structures. They urge believers to utilize prayer and fasting as instruments to combat societal division and advocate for the restoration of constitutional values.

President of CBCI Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, emphasizes the purpose of the day “Prayer and fasting is the most powerful and effective means in our hands combating the forces of falsehood, violence.”

The CBCI expresses concern about the widening gap between rich and poor, unemployment, and alleged threats to minority rights. They view these issues as part of a "carefully crafted campaign" undermining the Constitution. Additionally, they reiterate demands for official recognition of Dalit Christians as a Scheduled Caste and protection of tribal rights.