തെലുങ്കാന സർക്കാർ നടത്തിയ കാസ്റ്റ് സെൻസസിൽ ആണ്, ക്രൈസ്തവ വിശ്വാസികളുടെ വൻ വർദ്ധനവിനെ പറ്റി പറയുന്നത്

The caste census conducted by the Telangana government has revealed a significant rise in the number of Christians, particularly among the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). This increase is largely attributed to large-scale conversions that have taken place over the years, often driven by social and economic factors. Many from the SC and ST communities have turned to Christianity in search of dignity, social upliftment, and access to better educational and healthcare opportunities provided by Christian missionary organizations. The role of churches in offering financial aid, scholarships, and community support has also played a crucial part in this demographic shift. Another major reason behind the increase is the dual-benefit approach taken by many converts. Since Scheduled Castes lose their reservation benefits upon officially converting to Christianity, many continue to identify as Hindus on paper while practicing Christianity in their personal lives. This allows them to retain access to government benefits while being part of Christian religious and social networks. The rise in numbers, as shown by the caste census, has now brought this issue into focus, sparking debates about the impact of religious conversions on caste-based reservations and social policies in Telangana.