New Delhi: Christian community leaders are under fire for inviting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to a Christmas celebration organised by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) on Monday, despite growing concerns over the rising persecution of Christians across the country.
Reports from organisations such as the United Christian Forum (UCF) and Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) highlight a significant surge in violence against Christians in recent years. In 2024 alone, 745 incidents of anti-Christian violence have been recorded from January to November. These include physical assaults, vandalism of churches, and intimidation, with over 200 churches destroyed during the Manipur riots in May, as reported by The Indian Express.
Critics argue that engaging with the Prime Minister, whose government has been accused of inaction on minority rights, sends a conflicting message to a community facing increased harassment and ostracization. Activists have pointed out that such gestures could potentially legitimise the government’s alleged apathy towards protecting minorities.
“We urge the Christian leadership to prioritise the safety and rights of their community instead of engaging in symbolic acts that dilute the gravity of the situation,” a collective statement signed by over 170 activists, academicians, and social workers read.
The rise of Hindutva nationalism has further intensified anti-minority sentiments, with groups like Bajrang Dal and Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) being accused of instigating attacks on Christians. International human rights bodies, including the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), have repeatedly flagged India’s deteriorating religious freedom, placing the country on its “Countries of Particular Concern” list.
As the debate over the invitation to PM Modi continues, the Christian community remains divided. While some view the engagement as an opportunity for dialogue, others see it as an abdication of moral responsibility in advocating for justice and equality for persecuted Christians.
The situation underscores the growing challenge for religious minorities in India as they navigate between seeking justice and engaging with political power structures.
