Over 400 Christian leaders demand urgent government intervention to tackle growing violence against the community
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — More than 400 senior Christian leaders and 30 prominent church groups have appealed to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take immediate action against escalating violence targeting Christians across India. The appeal, issued on December 31, highlights a disturbing pattern of hostility during the Christmas season and beyond, threatening the religious freedom guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.
The appeal comes in the wake of 14 incidents of violence, threats, and disruptions targeting Christian gatherings across the country during the Christmas festival. “These incidents are not isolated,” stated Thomas Abraham, one of the signatories. “They are part of a dangerous trend of growing intolerance that must be addressed.”
The Evangelical Fellowship of India documented over 720 incidents of violence against Christians by mid-December 2024, while the United Christian Forum reported 760 cases by November. These figures reflect an alarming rise in targeted attacks, which range from mob violence and threats to disruptions of prayer meetings and church services.
Prominent figures such as David Onesimus, Joab Lohara, Richard Howell, Mary Scaria, Cedric Prakash SJ, John Dayal, and Vijayesh Lal have expressed grave concern over these incidents. They pointed to the misuse of anti-conversion laws as a significant factor exacerbating religious tensions.
“These laws are being weaponised to harass and intimidate our community,” said Mary Scaria. “They undermine the constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and equality.”
The appeal also spotlighted the ongoing crisis in Manipur, where violence since May 2023 has led to over 250 deaths, the destruction of 360 churches, and the displacement of thousands. Christian leaders described the situation in the northeastern state as a humanitarian disaster requiring urgent attention.
“The violence in Manipur is a chilling reminder of what happens when hate is allowed to fester unchecked,” said Cedric Prakash SJ. “The destruction of churches and displacement of families are direct attacks on our faith and identity.”
The appeal to President Murmu and Prime Minister Modi outlined several key demands aimed at safeguarding religious freedom and ensuring justice for the Christian community.
The leaders emphasised the urgent need for immediate and impartial investigations into incidents of violence, urging the government to act swiftly to bring perpetrators to justice and provide relief to victims. They also called for the issuance of clear guidelines to state governments, urging them to uphold constitutional guarantees of religious freedom and take proactive measures to prevent communal violence. Recognising the importance of fostering harmony, the leaders proposed the initiation of regular interfaith dialogue involving representatives of all religious communities to address grievances, promote understanding, and build mutual respect across different faiths.
The misuse of anti-conversion laws and the rise of hate speeches were highlighted as primary concerns in the appeal. These laws, originally intended to curb forced conversions, are now being used to target minority communities.
“Religious freedom is not just a constitutional right; it is a cornerstone of our nation’s democracy,” said Vijayesh Lal. “The government must act decisively to protect this right.”
The leaders expressed hope that their appeal would inspire the government to reaffirm its commitment to pluralism and tolerance. “We are not just Christians; we are Indians,” said Thomas Abraham. “The unity and diversity of our nation depend on mutual respect and understanding.”
As India enters the new year, the Christian community’s plea serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges facing religious minorities. The government’s response will not only impact the future of the Christian community but also set the tone for India’s commitment to secularism and religious freedom.
“India’s greatness lies in its diversity,” concluded Cedric Prakash SJ. “Let us ensure that no community feels unsafe or unwelcome in our shared home.”
