While most Indian Christians are relatively free, many parts of the country remain key battlegrounds between Hindu extremists and Christians. Persecution is largely due to the amazing growth of Christianity among the low castes and Dalits, which threatens Hindu leaders. Violence against pastors and church gatherings continues on a monthly basis, usually in rural areas. A total of 109 incidents of anti-Christian violence were recorded in 2011. The extremist BJP party is in power in many states, and continues to push its version of Hinduism into the cultural mainstream.
Pray:
- Extremists are regrouping in rural areas, setting up schools to raise up a new ‘Hindu Taliban’. Pray that their influence will decrease
- Local police often side with those who commit the violence. Pray that the government will provide protection and justice for the Christian minority
- That biblical training, literacy and livelihood projects run by Open Doors will help strengthen the church.
