On November 10, Pastor Masih Das Rai planned to baptize Govind Verma, the head of a local chapter of the pro-Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Verma had earlier informed the pastor that he wanted to become a Christian. But on the day of his baptism, he contacted a militant Hindu organization, the Dharma Sena ("Religious Army"), and complained about Rai and disclosed the details of the planned baptismal service.
According to a November 18 report from Compass Direct, members of the Dharma Sena attacked Rai and twelve other Christians as they were worshipping during the ceremony. They handed the Christians over to the police who interrogated them. Rai was charged with "forced conversion" and deliberately insulting another person's religious beliefs. Those attending the ceremony were pressured to give statements against Pastor Rai. Unfortunately, some did so. Under the "forced conversion" charge, Rai could be imprisoned for up to one year and/or fined 5,000 rupees ($125).
A delegation from the Church of North India has attempted to file a counter-claim against Rai's attackers for assault and for insulting his Christian faith. The police have refused to hear their complaint.
Pray that the Lord will give Pastor Rai and the other believers boldness to proclaim the gospel in the midst of the ongoing opposition they face. Pray specifically that Govind Verma will truly turn to Christ and become a powerful testimony to God's saving grace. Pray that those believers who were unable to withstand the pressure will understand that they can find forgiveness from God and move on to stand firm once again.
For more information on the persecution facing Christians in India, click here.
(Source: Compass Direct)
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