Hindu extremists believe true Indians are Hindu, and minorities are persecuted.
bottom“Many others face even worse persecution for Christ, so why shouldn’t I endure this? I am honoured to suffer for His name.”
– Kaveri*
*Name changed for security purposes
The alienation and persecution of Christians in India continues to be intense. To religious nationalists, to be Indian is to be Hindu, and that leaves no place for Christianity. Discrimination and violence, particularly against converts. Social media is gravely exacerbating the problem with accusations, disinformation, and attacks often going viral, perpetuating false narratives around Christianity. Evangelistic risky.
Another weapon increasingly used to target Christians and other religious minorities is the anti-conversion laws, currently enacted in 12 states and counting. In theory, the laws are meant to protect all religions, but the reality is very different, aided by the laws’ vague wording. It means that even a constitutionally approved activity, such as a prayer meeting, can lead to an accusation, arrest, and interrogation. Even a false report is extremely dangerous, as it can lead to mob violence.
In Manipur, the scene of horrific ethnoreligious clashes in 2023, Christians are among those who continue to suffer, with many still displaced and vulnerable to attack.
Converts bear the brunt of persecution. The pressure they face to return to Hinduism is impressed almost daily. Christians who are active in outreach to Hindus are also targeted, particularly through the anti-conversion laws. There are some states (such as Kerala) where Christians are much less vulnerable, but they run the risk of persecution in Hindu-majority states. Tribal Christians are also at risk from threats and forcible reconversion. They can also lose government benefits.
– That God helps believers displaced by violence find hope, healing, and permanent homes.
– That believers are spared violence from extremists. Ask God to comfort those who have suffered attacks.
– That anti-conversion laws aren’t used to oppress Christians sharing their faith.
Open Doors’ partners provide persecution training and other relevant training, livelihood support, and emergency aid
