Hindu militants in the Banswara district of Rajasthan, near the border of Madhya Pradesh, interrupted a prayer meeting around midnight on August 14 and began assaulting those present. Nine Christians were seriously wounded in the attack.
On the occasion of India's Independence Day on August 15, approximately fifty Christians had gathered from the villages of Pathda and Piploda for a three-day prayer vigil to pray for their nation at the home of Jeeva Badar.
According to the August 15 report from Compass Direct, those injured include Badar, who suffered an axe blow to the head and required nine stitches. One lady, Asha Suresh, was strangled to the point where she was still unable to speak at last report. Also injured were Border Dippa, Bua Rupa, Prabhu Baji, Laxman Rupara, Shandu Mangu, Khumji Hawala and Dangi Mangu. The attackers were dressed in the typical khaki uniform of the militant group Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
When representatives from Miracle Ministry, who organized the prayer meeting, attempted to obtain a copy of the police report, a mob of around 300 met them at the police station. The police were forced to escort them across the border into Madhya Pradesh. Pastor Biju Varghese of Miracle Ministry has expressed fear for the safety of the Christians in the area.
Pray for the safety of the believers in this very poor area of Rajasthan. Join with these believers as they pray for freedom of worship and religious practice throughout their nation. Reports suggest that another Indian state, Chattisgarh, is endeavouring to strengthen its anti-conversion legislation. Under the proposed changes, anyone wishing to convert would require the approval of district officials. Anyone found to converting someone forcibly or fraudulently could face up to four years in prison and a fine up to 100,000 rupees ($2750 CDN).
For more information on the difficulties facing Christians in India, the most populated democracy in the world, click here.
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