Seven Ministerial Leaders Released on Bail

On June 12th, seven Christians – at least six of whom are pastors – were convicted under the anti-conversion laws of Madhya Pradesh state and sentenced to five years in prison, along with orders that each one of them also pay a substantial fine. The allegations relate to a social event that took place in June of 2024 when the accused believers had attended a child's birthday party. (For more details regarding this case, see our previous report.)

Since none of the accused believers had any previous criminal record, the High Court in Jabalpur granted all seven ministerial leaders leave on August 18th so they could appeal their sentences. Even though they were all granted bail, and subsequently released from prison, the court ordered them to return on January 7th, 2027, for trial.

Those arrested included Jeet Singh Dhurve, a lay leader from the village of Pipariya where the party took place. The other six were pastors from Diwari village. While imprisoned, Jeet's steadfast dedication to Christ served as a strong testimony among prison authorities and fellow prisoners. In fact, prison officials acknowledged his special ability to foster peace within the prison institution. Jeet testified when responding to this statement that the peace ultimately came from Jesus Christ.

The esteemed prisoner was then given the opportunity to deliver a speech to his fellow inmates on August 15th (India's Independence Day), providing many of them greatly needed encouragement. Some of the inmates have now begun warmly greeting Jeet with the words, "Jai Masih Ki," which is similar to our English saying, "Praise the Lord!"

• While we can praise God for the wonderful testimony that Jeet was able to provide among the prison staff and his fellow prisoners, please pray for the Holy Spirit's continual transformative work to take place in their hearts – leading them to call on the powerful name of the Lord in repentance and faith.
• Additionally, we can give thanks to God that all seven of these ministerial leaders have been granted bail until January's court hearing.
• In the interim, may those involved in the preparation of the legal appeals receive wisdom and guidance, so their efforts will result in the successful acquittal of the charges laid against these faithful Christian leaders.
• Pray that the controversial anti-conversion laws being enforced (and often abused) in various Indian states will be changed so true justice can prevail and churches – along with other Christian organizations – would be allowed to meet the dire needs of the impoverished through provisions of humanitarian aid and other tangible expressions of God's compassionate care for them.