In a landmark move towards inclusive leadership, the Karnataka Region Catholic Bishops' Council (KRCBC) has appointed Dr. Isabella Selvaraj Xavier as the new Joint Secretary to the Regional Commission for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Backward Classes (SC/ST/BC).
Her appointment, announced by Archbishop Peter Machado, President of the KRCBC and Metropolitan Archbishop of Bangalore, took effect on April 7, 2025. Dr. Xavier is the first-ever woman to hold this post within the Dalit Commission—marking a historic step for the Church’s commitment to representation and empowerment.
Alongside this milestone, Mr. Alphonse G. Kennedy, the outgoing Joint Secretary, has been named Regional Secretary, succeeding Father Yagappa. Kennedy becomes the first layperson to serve in this role under the KRCBC.
Praising Kennedy’s dedication, Fr. Yagappa said, “This is a well-deserved recognition. His expertise and passion will truly serve the welfare of SC/ST/BC communities in our state.”
Dr. Xavier, a trailblazing human rights advocate, is the founder of Sadhana Women and Child Welfare Society and Human Rights Centre in Dharwad.
Since 2001, the organization has worked to protect women and children's rights, addressing issues like trafficking, child marriage, abuse, and exploitation.
An accomplished academic, she holds master’s degrees in psychology, Hindi, sociology, and social work, along with a PhD in spirituality and leadership from Washington, D.C.
She is also a renowned motivational speaker and trainer for educational and law enforcement institutions across Karnataka.
Dr. Xavier has received 11 awards for her social service since 2005. Her leadership roles include positions in CROSS, Bengaluru, and the Women’s and SC/ST/OBC Commissions in the Belagavi Diocese.
In 2016, she also served as National President of Dalit Christian Women for Change, an initiative under the CBCI Office for SC/BC.
Her appointment not only breaks new ground but also reaffirms the Church’s ongoing efforts toward justice, dignity, and inclusive governance for marginalized communities.
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