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A group of unknown assailants attacked a college professor and severed his right hand and part of his arm in Kerala, India. TJ Joseph, a professor at Newman's College in Thodupuzha, allegedly offended some of his Muslim students two months ago with some questions he included in a test. Due to protests from Islamic groups, Joseph was suspended from his job and apologized for his "unintentional error." Nevertheless, he continued to receive threats.
On July 4, Joseph was returning from a Sunday service at his church when a van pulled up beside him. The assailants forced him from his car and attacked him with knives and swords, amputating his lower arm and inflicting deep wounds to his body. At last report, doctors were attempting to save his limb.
The attack has been condemned by many Islamic groups. The attackers are suspected to be members of the militant Popular Front of India. (Source: AsiaNews)
Pray for full and rapid healing. Pray that the misunderstanding which led to the attack will be resolved. Pray for peace amongst India's religious communities.
For more information on the persecution of Christians in India, go to the India Country Report.
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