REPRESENTATIVES of Christian groups in Delhi-NCR held a protest at Jantar Mantar on Feb 19 against the escalation of hate and violence against Christians in several states in the country. About 100 churches and organisations participated in the protest.
Dr Michael William, president of the United Christian Forum, said: “Today we’ve gathered here peacefully at Jantar Mantar because we want to share the anguish of our fellow citizens who also follow the Christian faith in the states of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and so many other places where their basic fundamental rights are being snatched.”
A statement issued by the Delhi-NCR Christian community stated: “The UCF, a human rights group based in New Delhi that monitors atrocities against Christians in India, has recorded a total of 598 incidents of violence against Christians from 21 states this year alonÿye, till the end of December 2022.”
In the recent past, there was an escalation of attacks against Christians in several parts of the country, the protesters said.
Speaking on the occasion, Father Arul Anthony said: “As per our Constitution, we have the freedom to exercise our faith. But I don’t know why we are being attacked. The government comes to our help, but (it’s) not enough, it’s sad that they are not so supportive of us…”
Leaders of various groups said they would submit a memorandum to the President of India in this regard soon.
