️ Christians in India are increasingly targeted by Hindu vigilante groups, with nearly 900 incidents recorded in 2025 alone, according to rights groups. Attacks include physical assaults, disruptions of church services, and threats.

️ In Uttar Pradesh's Shahjahanpur district, pastor Jaynendra (name changed) was leading a prayer meeting in his home when a mob of 50-60 people stormed in. Police detained 10-11 people, including a 13-year-old girl.

️ The pastor was later arrested under the state's anti-conversion law and spent over four months in jail. Despite no evidence, the case remains ongoing.

️ In Madhya Pradesh's Chhindwara district, Vinay Patil (name changed) described an attack where 35-40 men with sticks beat women and children. Police arrested the victims, not the attackers.

️ Rights advocates link the surge in violence to the rise of the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2014. Incidents have risen from 134 in 2014 to about 900 in 2025.

️ India's constitution guarantees religious freedom, but police often side with attackers. Victims say they are accused of forced conversions while perpetrators go free.

️ Government officials defend anti-conversion laws, but critics argue they enable abuse. Many pastors have been acquitted, but the legal process itself is punishing.

Source: www.dw.com