The Problem

India

Leader: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Population: 1.4 billion (65 million Christians)
Main Religion: Hinduism
Government: Parliamentary republic
Source of Persecution: Hindu extremism
World Watch List Rank: 10

“Around 250 people surrounded my house, they caught hold of me and dragged me for about half a kilometer to the nearby temple. When we arrived at the temple they pushed me towards the idol and ordered me to bow down; I mustered all the strength that was left within me and said, ‘I will die but I will not bow to this idol.’”
Khushal, a Pastor from central India

The basics

Hindu extremists want to see India free of Christians by the end of 2021.

Hindu nationalists see being Hindu as part of Indian identity – following any other faith is seen as a betrayal. The government, led by a Hindu nationalist party, turns a blind eye to attacks on Christians and other minorities. Christians make up less than five per cent of the population in India, and in rural areas they can be particularly isolated. They face beatings, false imprisonment, and even death because of their faith.

When the government of India is allowing violent attacks to take place against Christians, and an extremist group linked with the leading political party is actively trying to wipe out the church, it isn’t surprising that Christians in India are facing horrific levels of persecution. Open Doors church partners estimate that almost 12,500 Christians were physically attacked in 2018 because of their faith.

The facts

• Those in power see being Indian as being Hindu, so Indians that are Christian are despised.
• A Hindu extremist group linked to a leading political party is actively trying to wipe out the church – they’ve set a target of 2021.
• 12,500 Christians and about 100 churches were attacked last year.
• India still has a strict caste system that orders society. Many Christians come from the poorest caste, the dalits or untouchables. They are despised by others in higher up, more respectable castes.
• Violence against Christians is turning increasing brutal and extreme.

Where is it?

Things to pray for…

• For protection for Christians from Hindu backgrounds
• Open Doors partners are helping Christians to understand their legal rights – pray this will be effective in helping them to defend themselves from false accusations
• Many are coming to faith in India through incredible healings – pray that God would continue to use His people to bring healing and hope to others.

Videos

More detailed info…

The good news: How we’re helping…

Open Doors works through church partners to support Christians in India through Bible distribution, training, community development projects, urgent relief aid and advocacy support.

Latest news and articles on India…

Click the India tag below for a list of the latest articles and news on the country…

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