In recent months, there has been a disturbing escalation in the persecution of Christians across India, with reports indicating an alarming frequency of attacks. From January to November 2023, the United Christian Forum (UCF) documented 687 incidents of violence against Christians in 23 states, averaging more than two attacks per day.
These acts of aggression encompass a range of hostilities, including physical assaults, arson targeting churches, and the vandalism of Christian institutions. The state of Chhattisgarh, in particular, has emerged as a hotspot for such violence, recording the highest number of attacks against Christians.
The surge in anti-Christian sentiment is often attributed to the rise of Hindu nationalist ideologies, which propagate the notion that non-Hindu faiths are unwelcome in India. This environment has emboldened extremist groups to perpetrate violence with relative impunity, especially in regions where local authorities share similar ideological leanings.
Compounding the issue, several Indian states have enacted anti-conversion laws, ostensibly to prevent forced religious conversions. However, these laws have been weaponized to harass and arrest Christians under baseless accusations, further marginalizing the community. In the past four years, nearly 1,700 individuals have been arrested under such laws in one state alone.
The international community has taken note of these developments. The U.S. State Department's 2023 religious freedom report highlighted violent attacks on minority groups in India, particularly Muslims and Christians, including killings, assaults, and vandalism of houses of worship.
Despite these alarming trends, the Indian government has dismissed international concerns, labeling them as "biased" and asserting that they misrepresent the nation's social dynamics.
As the situation deteriorates, the resilience of India's Christian community is being tested. The faithful continue to gather for worship, provide humanitarian aid, and advocate for their rights, even in the face of mounting adversity. Their unwavering commitment to their faith serves as a testament to their strength and determination amid escalating persecution.