Religious persecution continues to escalate in parts of India, where Christians face growing hostility for practicing their faith. A recent attack on a Christmas gathering underscores the rising tension and violence, revealing the challenges believers endure in staying faithful under extreme pressure. This heartbreaking account sheds light on the courage of those who suffer for their faith and the urgent need for awareness and prayer. While the individuals in the report are not affiliated with SOM-India, their experience demonstrates what our persecuted family faces regularly.

Christian Women Targeted and Brutalized

Source: Morning Star News, January 9, 2025

A tribal Christian woman in eastern India was brutally attacked by Hindu extremists during a Christmas luncheon on December 26. Subhasini, 40, was beaten, stripped, and tied to a tree along with another woman, Sukanti, after extremists accused the group of forced conversions. Despite repeated denials by the host of the gathering, the mob assaulted multiple people, smeared cake on Subhasini’s face, and continued torturing her even after she lost consciousness. Videos later showed the women tied to a tree and forced to chant Hindu slogans. Police intervened and took the women to a station, but they were later charged under conversion laws despite being the victims of the attack.

The incident highlights the growing hostility faced by Christians in India, with the rise of Hindu nationalist sentiment under the current government. Although seven of the attackers were arrested after videos of the assault went viral, local media and extremists continued to frame the gathering as an attempt at forced conversion. Subhasini, who became a Christian in 2017, serves as an evangelist and had brought a Christmas cake to the luncheon. Religious freedom advocates point to increasing violence against Christians, as India has climbed to 11th on the 2024 World Watch List for countries where it is hardest to practice Christianity.

This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the persecution faced by Christians in India and around the world. As we reflect on the courage of those who endure such suffering, let us respond with fervent prayer. Pray persecuted believers, for their physical and emotional healing, and for their faith to remain strong. Pray for justice to prevail and for hearts to be softened toward the message of Christ. And may we all be inspired to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in faith, lifting them up in love and intercession.