Photo: VOMC
This year started and ended with reports about Christians who were detained in the state of Uttar Pradesh due to its anti-conversion legislation. This is one of the 12 Indian states that has laws regulating religious conversions, with increasing political pressure being placed on the country's government to enact the legislation nationally. While regulations protecting people from religious conversions by force or deception may be beneficial, the regulations are often misused by individuals and officials as a way of stopping any religious activity they personally oppose.
On January 2nd, accusations of coercion led to a violent confrontation at a Catholic church in Chahattisgarh. Significant damage was made to the church building, and several police officers were injured while attempting to intervene. Christians have also been accused when conducting small gatherings in their homes. In early June, a group of militants disrupted a family gathering, resulting in the arrests of five Christians. Thankfully, those who had been arrested were eventually released on bail.
In a positive development, following elections that took place in the state of Karnataka this past May, action has begun to repeal the state's anti-conversion laws. This move has been strongly opposed by the BJP – a political party with strong Hindu-nationalist leanings. Even so, a recently made court ruling in the state of Uttar Pradesh may help to further mitigate the effects of the state's future laws. The judge ruled that "accusations of alluring people to convert" can only be filed by the person being allegedly targeted or by a family member of that person. He also provided some legal guidelines on what constitutes "allurement." For more details about the court ruling, go to this page.
Known as the most populous nation in the world, India is officially a secular country guided by a constitution that guarantees religious freedom. However, the process of ensuring that this freedom is respected has proven to be a difficult task in a country where there is strong pressure to establish India officially as a Hindu nation. For more reports on India, and/or to view podcasts addressing Christian persecution in this country, go to our country report.
Prayerfully uphold the many Christians in India who are facing serious threats to their freedoms, securities and safeties because of their faith in Christ. May believers throughout this nation receive the spiritual strength required to stand firm in the midst of extreme opposition and brightly shine His light in the darkness. Please also remember the ongoing ministry work of those who are boldly reaching out to others with the "Good News" of Jesus. May any further threats from their opponents not stop the proclamation of the Gospel, but rather serve as the catalyst for leading many more to faith in the "Prince of Peace."
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