Blog

‘Revengeful drive’ following election behind spate of arrests in India

Local believers and Open Doors partners believe a ‘revengeful drive’, following the BJP’s lost majority in the recent election, is behind an increase in hostility against religious minorities in India – including the arrests of at least 14 Christians in Uttar Pradesh.

The believers were detained in a series of incidents between 7 and 23 June after being accused under the state’s anti-conversion laws. These laws – which are currently in force in 12 states across India – are ostensibly meant to prevent forced conversions, but they’re often used to target Christians who are simply expressing and sharing their faith, such as holding a prayer meeting. 

The governing Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) reduced majority was not expected by the party or radical Hindu groups – and it appears to have provoked a reaction felt by our Indian family.

Please Pray

• For the safety, wellbeing and acquittal of all arrested believers
• That the anti-conversion laws will be repealed or amended to stop them from being misused to target religious minorities 
• For wisdom, courage and discernment for Christians who are vulnerable to false accusations.