11India

In India, Hindu extremists view all Christians as outsiders and aim to cleanse the nation of Islam and Christianity, often using extensive violence. This hostility is often driven by Hindutva, an ongoing Hindu nationalist belief among some extremists that Indians ought to be Hindu – and no other faith will be tolerated.

This mindset has led to violent attacks across the country and impunity for the people who perpetrate them, especially where the authorities are also Hindu hardliners. In such places, Christians who attend house churches risk attack by extremist mobs who target services.

Additionally, 12 states have passed anti-conversion laws, which threaten religious freedom for individual believers.

Meet Anjali Lhing

“The victims of violence are finding ways and means to restore and return to the state, but the constant attacks and killings have shrunk all hopes and opportunities. Houses are burned down, innocent lives are lost, and families continue to be displaced. If the situation continues to remain the same, another widespread violence is anticipated.”

Anjali Lhing (name changed), A local Christian speaking about the violence in India’s Manipur State.

What does Open Doors do to help?

Open Doors raises prayer support for the believers in India.