Religious Persecution In India (2023)

By: Nempal Singh (Advocate)

Date: 14/08/2023 

Rising Religious Persecution: The Plight of Christianity in India

Introduction: 

Religious persecution remains an unsettling problem across the globe, even in the 21st century where tolerance and freedom of religion are virtues to uphold. In recent years, the state of religious tolerance in India has been shrouded in controversy, with reports highlighting a surge in religious persecution, particularly targeting the Christian community. This blog post aims to shed light on the alarming situation of Christian persecution in India, exploring the underlying causes, the implications for religious harmony, and the urgent need for intervention.

Historical Context: 

India, a land known for its rich history and diverse cultural heritage, has a long-standing reputation for religious harmony. However, rising incidents of intolerance and discrimination have rocked this peaceful coexistence, particularly affecting the Christian community. It is crucial to understand the historical background in order to grasp the current state of affairs.

Religious Tensions:

Since Hinduism is the majority religion in India, incidents of religious intolerance tend to be directed at religious minorities, such as Christians. Christians have faced instances of forced conversions, church attacks, mob violence, and discriminatory laws that limit the practice of their faith. These incidents have instilled fear in the hearts of Indian Christians, who should be able to freely exercise their faith without persecution.

Socio-Political Factors:

The rise of Hindu nationalist ideology in India has contributed to the growing religious tensions. The political landscape has seen an upsurge in parties and organizations promoting a Hindu-centric agenda, indirectly endorsing discrimination against minority communities. Such rhetoric creates an environment where religious minorities are vulnerable and more likely to be targeted.

Consequences for Religious Harmony:

The consequences of religious persecution are profound and far-reaching. The erosion of religious harmony not only threatens India's secular fabric but also damages the nation's reputation on the global stage. Discrimination against Christians undermines the principles of unity, harmony, and inclusivity that India has always stood for.

Global Response and Call to Action:

The international community must acknowledge and address the ongoing religious persecution, especially against Christianity in India. Governments of democratic nations are urged to engage in diplomacy and put pressure on the Indian government to ensure that religious freedom is upheld. International human rights organizations should meticulously document incidents of persecution, raising awareness and amplifying the voices of the oppressed.

Conclusion :

Religious persecution, particularly against the Christian community in India, is a growing concern that challenges India's secular democracy and the global reputation it holds. It is vital for the Indian government, international players, and civil society to work together to restore religious harmony, protect the rights of religious minorities, and foster a society that truly exemplifies unity in diversity.