During the conference, Dr. Richard Devadoss and Revd. Chandra Mohan, from India, presented a paper elaborating the implications of caste for Dalits and Dalit Christians in India. Mr. Savio Mahimaidass, from Londondiscussed the discrimination being faced by Dalits within UKamong the Indian Diaspora.

Dr. Jacob Devadason, from Manchesteroutlined the origin and development of Dalit theology and Vincent Manoharandealt with the present status of Dalit Theology among grass root activists in India. Finally, Dr. Mukti Barton, Queens, highlighted the significance and character of Black, Asian, Feminist theology and Dalit theology. Alongside the presentations, there were vigorous and helpful discussions amongst participants, all of whom were concerned to address and alleviate caste based discrimination.  

Participants in the conference also included Dr. Adam Hood, the Vice Principal of Queen’s Foundation, who welcomed attendees, recalling Queen’s long-standing commitment to partnerships with Indian institutions and the development of Dalit Theology. Also involved in chairing sessions were Revd. David Haslam, Revd. Margaret  Kalaiselvi and Prof. Mary C. Grey, who all shared their views on the miserable situation of Indian Dalits and offered their theological reflections on how to tackle this discrimination. Dr. Anthony G. Reddie, the Black Theologian and Research Fellow at Queen’s, in his valedictory address observed, how contextual and liberation theologies help to address the issue of diverse oppressions. He emphasized that theology, beyond addressing the issues, should help human beings to live in harmony, equality and justice. 

Rev. Vincent Manoharanproposed a vote of thanks. He was hopeful that his thesis and recommendations would contribute to enlarging Dalit theology as a practical theology able to engage with grassroots Christians in their struggle with caste discrimination.