Christians Injured in Church Attack

More than 25 Christians – including children and elderly believers – were injured when a worship service was violently disrupted by Hindu nationalists on May 31st. The attack occurred in the village of Sadrapal, which is located within Chhattisgarh State, as more than 60 Christians gathered for worship. Among those injured were Pastor Hunga Mandavi and his pregnant wife. During the assault, the attackers demanded that the congregants renounce their faith in Christ.

Following the violent incident, the assaulted believers attempted to register a formal complaint with local police. However, the officers on duty at the time initially refused to file the report, contributing to delays in the provision of necessary medical treatment for several injured Christians. The complaint was eventually registered on June 5th. Authorities then arrested 12 suspected perpetrators on June 7th before releasing them three days later. Although the accused individuals maintain that the violence stemmed from a land dispute, the Christian community firmly denies this claim.

According to local sources, Christians in Sadrapal have been subjected to long-standing discrimination. For example, many were denied access to the village's water source, forcing them to travel long distances for their supply. Reports also indicate that attacks against Christians within the state have significantly increased since the passing of the revised anti-conversion laws in March 2026. "Almost every other day, we hear of such incidents in the state," noted a spokesperson for the Progressive Christian Alliance.

Christians in many areas of India continue to encounter ongoing hardships, frequently marked by hostility and false accusations. To review other published reports concerning the increase of persecution in this South Asian nation, visit our country profile.

• In the aftermath of this most recently occurring attack, pray that God will minister needed healing and comfort to those who are now recovering from the trauma – strengthening them physically, emotionally and spiritually.

• May the Lord also surround these believers with His divine protection and peace, making it possible for them to receive the help they need when confronted with any future threat of resistance.

• Lift up Christians throughout India, praying that they too would experience God's reassuring presence in tangible and meaningful ways, so they will be further encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith amid oppositional challenges.