No person who professes a religion different from the Hindu, the Sikh or the Buddhist religion shall be deemed to be a member of a Scheduled Caste. The benefits of Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) meant for the welfare and development of Scheduled Castes can not be extended to Converted Christians from Scheduled Castes.

Government of Andhra Pradesh vide their letter dated 30.07.2021 has informed that they have issued orders vide GO.Ms. No. 341, Social Welfare Dept., dated 13.08.1977 that non-statutory concessions granted to the Scheduled Castes (Hindus) by the State Government be extended to Scheduled Caste converts to Christian and to Buddhism.

Since this will not apply to the benefits under Centrally Sponsored Schemes or any other statutory benefits, no further action is contemplated from the Ministry. This information was given by The Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri A. Narayanaswamy in the Loksabha in a written reply today.

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MG/IA

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