Christian leaders condemn attacks, urge unity against rising religious intolerance

Andhra Pradesh: The Andhra Pradesh Pastors Federation (APPF) has strongly condemned the recent attack on Christian places of worship by religious fanatics in Sri Sathya Sai district. In response, APPF leaders Reverend Surya Prakash, Reverend Philip, alongside Christian pastors, met with local police officials, urging swift action against the perpetrators and calling for measures to prevent future assaults. APCLF leader Oliver Rayi also voiced strong opposition to the attacks, denouncing the growing climate of religious intolerance.

Growing divisions and the danger of religious polarization

Renowned Christian scholar and public intellectual Dr. L K Mruthyunjaya raised serious concerns over the increasing fragmentation of India along religious and ideological lines. Citing historical separatist movements—from Naxalbari to the Khalistan movement—he warned that the unchecked rise of religious intolerance threatens to further divide the nation. The recent push for anti-conversion laws, particularly the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister’s controversial proposal for the death penalty for religious conversions, highlights the extent of the crisis. Dr. Mruthyunjaya emphasized that such policies violate India’s constitutional commitment to secularism and unity.

A parallel government? Religious fanaticism and state complicity

Christian leaders question whether extremist groups are being allowed to act with impunity, as reports suggest that Hindu nationalist organizations are increasingly taking on the role of law enforcement. “When did religious fanatics gain the authority to check church and mosque permits?” asked Dr. Mruthyunjaya. “If the government has issued such an order, let it be made public. If not, why are the authorities silent as extremist groups assume powers that do not belong to them?”

Recent Pew Research statistics indicate that India ranks first among 198 countries in religious intolerance. While Prime Minister Modi presents himself as an international peace ambassador, Christian leaders argue that extremist elements within the country are creating a parallel system of oppression, undermining the nation’s democratic fabric.

Call for unity: Strength through collective action

Amidst these challenges, Christian leaders are calling for unity and unwavering faith. Dr. Mruthyunjaya stressed that the community must stand firm against oppression and remain steadfast in their mission. The Bible offers clear guidance on the power of unity in faith:

According to Philippians 1:27, all Christians must stand together, unwavering, in faith and purpose. Galatians 6:9 affirms that endurance in the face of adversity will lead to victory. Matthew 18:19-20 clearly guides that when believers unite in prayer and action, divine intervention follows.

Dr. Mruthyunjaya urges Christian leaders and believers to remain vigilant, reject fear, and unite in faith and action. As history has shown, religious communities that stand together against oppression ultimately prevail. With unwavering faith, perseverance, and unity, the Christian community can overcome the growing challenges and ensure their fundamental rights remain protected.