By Special Correspondent
In the tumultuous landscape leading up to the national elections, the opening months of 2024 have witnessed a disturbing surge in violence targeting Indian Christians, with over 161 reported incidents of brutality and discrimination. This alarming trend, documented through the United Christian Forum, India (UCF India) paints a grim picture of the erosion of fundamental rights and safety for this community.
The statistics reveal a stark reality: January saw 70 reported cases of violence, followed by 62 in February, and 29 in the first half of March alone. Chhattisgarh emerges as a troubling hotspot, recording 47 incidents of violence where Christians faced social ostracization, denial of water from community sources, and even desecration of burial rights. The denial of dignified burials is particularly egregious, as families are prevented from honoring their deceased loved ones according to Christian traditions. This disregard for basic human rights extends to the threat of forced cremations, illustrating a disturbing trend of Gharwapasi-driven aggression.
Uttar Pradesh, a state with significant political clout, ranks second with 36 reported incidents. Here, the persecution takes on a systemic dimension, with state agencies falsely accusing pastors of conversion activities during innocuous gatherings like birthday celebrations. The misuse of laws like the UP Freedom of Religion Act to target religious minorities underscores the severity of the situation, leading to over 30 arrests and detentions of pastors within the first 75 days of 2024.
Beyond these states, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Odisha, Delhi, Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal have also reported incidents of violence against Christians, collectively spanning 19 states. The targeting of Christians under false pretenses has resulted in the unjust detention or arrest of 122 individuals, highlighting a systemic pattern of persecution across the country.
In a statement UCF India urgently calls upon leadership to address these atrocities with decisive action against perpetrators. The protection of religious minorities and upholding their right to practice their faith without fear of reprisal is essential for a just and harmonious society. We echo the sentiments of many in hoping for a peaceful and fair election, free from the shadows of violence and discrimination.
UCF Toll-Free Helpline: 1-800-208-4545