QUICK FACTS
Leader: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Government: Federal republic
Population: 1.3 billion (59 million Christians)
Main Religion: Hinduism
Persecution Level: Severe
Source of persecution: Religious nationalism
OVERVIEW OF INDIA
IndiaThe oppressive caste system is blocking social mobility. Economic wealth is unevenly distributed. A new Hindu government (in power since May 2014 and led by Hindu hardliner Narendra Modi) is radicalizing society. All traditions of Christianity are affected by persecution in India, but Christian converts from a Hindu background and non-traditional Protestant groups are suffering most. At the top level the influence of fundamentalist Hindus has increased. Hindu radicals have started monitoring Christian activity in much detail. Many of them have planted spies in churches. Reports on pastors and church members beaten because of allegations of conversion are frequent; sometimes Christians are even killed.
PRAYER POINTS
For Christian converts to stand strong against those who are trying to force a return to Hinduism
That hatred against Christians instigated by radical political parties may end
That the new government of Narendra Modi will give Christians the freedom to express their faith without violence in every part of India
Leader: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Government: Federal republic
Population: 1.3 billion (59 million Christians)
Main Religion: Hinduism
Persecution Level: Severe
Source of persecution: Religious nationalism
OVERVIEW OF INDIA
IndiaThe oppressive caste system is blocking social mobility. Economic wealth is unevenly distributed. A new Hindu government (in power since May 2014 and led by Hindu hardliner Narendra Modi) is radicalizing society. All traditions of Christianity are affected by persecution in India, but Christian converts from a Hindu background and non-traditional Protestant groups are suffering most. At the top level the influence of fundamentalist Hindus has increased. Hindu radicals have started monitoring Christian activity in much detail. Many of them have planted spies in churches. Reports on pastors and church members beaten because of allegations of conversion are frequent; sometimes Christians are even killed.
PRAYER POINTS
For Christian converts to stand strong against those who are trying to force a return to Hinduism
That hatred against Christians instigated by radical political parties may end
That the new government of Narendra Modi will give Christians the freedom to express their faith without violence in every part of India
