Deep Dive into India – A Brief Background
India, the seventh-largest country in the world by landmass, is a South Asian nation renowned for its rich cultural heritage, spiritual traditions, and historical significance. Bordered by Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, India is home to over 1.4 billion people, comprising a mosaic of ethnicities, languages, and religions. The country’s history spans ancient civilizations, foreign invasions, and colonial rule under the British, culminating in its hard-fought independence in 1947. Today, India is the world’s largest democracy and an emerging global power, but it also grapples with a wide array of social, economic, and religious challenges.
One of India’s most pressing issues is the persecution of religious minorities, including Christians. Though Christians form a small percentage of the population—about 2.3% according to the 2011 census of India —their presence is deeply felt across the nation. For centuries, Christianity has been part of India’s story, from the arrival of the Apostle Thomas in the first century to the missionary efforts of St. Francis Xavier and William Carey. Yet, in recent years, Christians in India have faced increasing levels of persecution, particularly in rural areas and states governed by hardline nationalist policies.
Persecution in India
The rise of Hindu nationalism has significantly affected India’s religious minorities, especially Christians. Anti-conversion laws, enacted in several states, have been weaponized against Christians, accusing them of forcibly converting others. These laws, though framed as protecting religious freedom, have often been used to harass and intimidate Christian communities. In many cases, individuals sharing their faith or organizing prayer gatherings have been falsely accused of coercion and subjected to arrest or mob violence.
The vague language of these laws leaves room for misuse, making it dangerous for pastors, evangelists, and even ordinary believers to openly express their faith. Many Christians, particularly those from tribal or Dalit (formerly “untouchable”) backgrounds, face violent attacks, social boycotts, and discrimination under the pretext of these laws. Churches are vandalized, worship services are disrupted, and believers are pressured to renounce their faith or face dire consequences.
For new converts to Christianity, especially those in rural areas, the situation can be devastating. They are often ostracized by their communities, losing access to vital resources and support networks. In some instances, families are forced to flee their homes, seeking refuge in safer areas.
Help Us Help Them
Despite the challenges, hope shines through the darkness. Frontlines International has been actively working with partners on the ground to provide Bibles, discipleship resources, and support to persecuted Christians in India. These resources help believers stay rooted in their faith and find strength in God’s Word amidst adversity. The organization’s efforts also extend to equipping pastors and church leaders with the tools they need to minister effectively in hostile environments.
The work of Frontlines International reminds us of the resilience of India’s Christian community. Even in the face of severe trials, many believers continue to gather for worship, pray for their persecutors, and share the love of Christ with their neighbors.
Prayer Points:
Pray for Religious Freedom: Ask God to protect the rights of all religious communities in India and to guide policymakers toward upholding the nation’s constitutional commitment to secularism and equality.
Pray for Protection and Strength: Pray for the safety of Christians across India, especially those facing violence and discrimination. Ask God to comfort and strengthen them, providing for their physical and spiritual needs.
Pray for Boldness and Unity: Pray that Indian Christians will remain steadfast in their faith and united in their efforts to be salt and light in their communities. Ask God to empower them with courage, wisdom, and a spirit of forgiveness.
