In February 2024, a pastor in Uttar Pradesh faced a shocking encounter when police knocked on his door, asking, “What religion do you belong to?” This inquiry came after Hindu nationalist groups accused him of attempting to convert locals to Christianity. The pastor, who requested anonymity due to safety concerns, identified himself as a Christian and was promptly arrested.
His ordeal is not an isolated incident; it is part of a troubling trend in India, where Christians are increasingly facing persecution. According to a report by the Evangelical Fellowship of India Religious Liberty Commission (EFIRLC), there were 640 verified incidents of attacks against Christians in India in 2024, marking a 6.5% increase from the previous year. The report suggests that the actual number of incidents, including unverified cases, may be even higher.
These attacks manifest in various forms, including physical violence, disruptions of worship services, vandalism of churches, social ostracism, and unjust arrests. The rising anti-Christian sentiment is largely fueled by extremist groups, often with the backing of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other Hindu nationalist organizations. These groups exploit anti-conversion laws as tools to target Christians, leading to a climate of fear and repression.
The EFIRLC report categorizes the violence against Christians in India, highlighting that the most common incidents involve threats and harassment, followed by arrests and physical assaults. In 2024, Christians also faced social boycotts, forced conversions, and even murder. The statistics reveal a grim reality: Christians, who make up about 2% of the Indian population, are increasingly marginalized and attacked for their beliefs.
A significant aspect of this persecution is the use of anti-conversion laws, which have been enacted in several states. These laws are often vaguely worded, allowing for broad interpretations that effectively criminalize basic religious practices. For instance, in Uttar Pradesh, the maximum punishment for alleged forced conversions has been increased to life imprisonment. This legal framework has emboldened extremist groups to justify their violent actions against Christians.
In many cases, the police have sided with the attackers, failing to protect victims or even arresting them instead. A recent incident in Rajasthan involved a mob of 200 people disrupting a Christian worship service, leading to severe injuries among congregants. Instead of pursuing the attackers, police accused the Christians of forced conversion. This pattern of victim-blaming is alarmingly common.
Despite these challenges, the faith of many Christians in India remains unshaken. The pastor from Uttar Pradesh, who spent six months in jail before being released on bail, expressed his unwavering commitment to his beliefs. “Even now, I must be careful where I pray, who I speak with, and how openly I practice my faith,” he shared. “But I cannot abandon what I believe. Many of us worship in secret now, but we still worship.”
International watchdogs have taken notice of the escalating violence against Christians in India. Reports from organizations like International Christian Concern highlight the role of groups such as the BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in perpetuating this climate of fear. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence on these issues has raised concerns among human rights advocates, who argue that it reflects a broader strategy to consolidate power within a Hindu nationalist framework.
The situation is dire, yet the resilience of the Christian community shines through. Legal-aid organizations and advocacy groups are tirelessly working to support those who have been wrongfully accused. They document abuses and raise international awareness, seeking justice for victims of persecution.
As we reflect on these events, it is crucial to remember the importance of religious freedom and the rights of all individuals to practice their faith without fear. The plight of Christians in India serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for religious liberty worldwide. While the challenges are significant, the hope for a future where all can worship freely remains alive in the hearts of many.
For more information on the situation of Christians in India, visit the Evangelical Fellowship of India and International Christian Concern.