Government considering proposal to accord minority status to Jains

NEW DELHI: The government is considering a proposal to accord minority status to Jains, the Lok Sabha was informed today.

Minority Affairs Minister K Rahman Khan said government has received several representations for giving minority status to Jains.

"It is under consideration," he said in a written reply to a question as to whether government proposes to provide minority status to Jains in the country.

According to existing law, five communities - Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Zoroastrians (Parsis) - are notified as minority communities and enjoy the benefits and schemes meant for minorities.

Jains have long been demanding recognition as a separate religion, saying their religious practices are unique and it is unfair to club them with Hindus.