By Matters India Reporter
New Delhi, Feb 15, 2022: As many as 53 incidents of violence against Christians were registered in the first 45 days of 2022, says an ecumenical group based in New Delhi.
The United Christian Forum on February 15 said the incidents were recorded by its toll-free helpline number launched seven years ago.
The 53 incidents were recorded as on February 14.
‘There has been a steady rise in incidents of violence against Christians,” says a press note from A C Michael, the forum’s national coordinator.
The helpline number (1-800-208-4545) aims to help Christians in distress, especially those who are not aware of the law of the land and the system. It guides people on how to reach out to the authorities, besides providing the way to legal remedies.
The helpline registered 505 cases last year.
A press release from the forum says its data is not exhaustive as many case have not been reported.
However, the helpline recorded 127 incidents in 2014, 142 in 2015, 226 in 2016, 248 in 2017, 292 in 2018, 328 in 2019, 279 in 2020, and 505 in 2021.
Michael narrated a mob violence in 2021. A group of radicals interrupted the Sunday service by loud abuse and physical assault at Wajidpur, Tendui, Gaya, Bihar.
“On July 11, 2021, a group of 20 attacked around 90 people praying together in a house. The victims sustained injuries and warnings that they should not conduct religious gatherings. The pastor fled the house to save his life. It took three months to file a complaint with the various government officials in the area,” Michael added.
Christians form just 2.3 percent of India’s population, according to the 2011 Census.
The forum released the data as elections are underway in five Indian states. None of the political parties in the fray has guaranteed protection for minorities, the forum regrets.
“We appeal to the government and all political parties as they contest elections in various states to ensure rights of all minorities within the framework of the Constitution of India,” the forum says.
The ecumenical group also explains that the Part III of the Indian Constitution, especially Articles 25 and 26, guarantees the fundamental right to freely profess, practice and propagate their religion.
Speaking for India’s minority communities, the forum seeks specific direction to the police to take strict and immediate action against perpetrators of violence against religious minorities, who attempt to divide people on communal lines for political and personal gain.
It also wants sensitization program for senior police officers to better equip them to handle the increasing cases of targeted violence against religious minorities.
Another appeal is the introduction of victim compensation schemes for physical injury and damage to property caused on account of targeted violence against religious minorities.
“Expedite a fair, transparent and time-bound process for the issuance of permission to conduct prayers at places of worship belonging to all religious communities,” it concludes.
What is this “Ünited Christian Forum”? Who are the office bearers and members of this Forum? Does it have an office? What is the address? Can we have the details of the 53 incidents of violence against Christians?