UCF Reports Escalating Violence Against Christians in India

The 2024 report by the United Christian Forum (UCF) reveals a troubling increase in violence against Christians in India, with incidents rising from 127 in 2014 to 834 by December 2024, Muslim Mirror reported yesterday.

Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are identified as hotspots, reporting 209 and 165 cases, respectively. Many incidents remain unreported due to fear of retaliation.

The report highlights a pervasive atmosphere of fear within the Christian community, exacerbated by cultural policing and complicity from law enforcement. Over 100 pastors and their families are currently imprisoned without bail, raising concerns about the judicial process.

Significant violence has been noted during religious occasions, with 14 attacks on Christmas 2024 alone. In response, over 400 Christian leaders and 30 church groups appealed to President Draupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi for action against the persecution.

Of the 834 recorded incidents, only 392 were officially registered as First Information Reports (FIRs). Types of violence include 149 physical assaults, 209 property damage incidents, and 798 cases of intimidation.