CBCI flays attacks on Christians ahead of Christmas

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) on Tuesday strongly condemned what it described as an “alarming” rise in attacks on Christians in various states during the Christmas season, warning that such incidents undermine India’s constitutional guarantee of freedom of religion.
In a statement, the CBCI said it was “particularly shocked” by a video from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, allegedly showing BJP city vice-president Anju Bhargava verbally abusing and physically harassing a visually impaired woman attending a Christmas programme inside church premises. Terming the act egregious and dehumanising, the bishops’ body demanded Bhargava’s immediate dismissal from the Bharatiya Janata Party.
“The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India expresses deep anguish and unequivocally condemns the alarming rise in attacks on Christians in various states during the Christmas season,” the statement said. It added that targeted incidents against peaceful carol singers and congregations gathered for prayer gravely erode the right to live and worship without fear.
The CBCI also expressed serious concern over the circulation of alleged hate-filled digital posters in Chhattisgarh calling for a bandh on December 24 against Christians, warning that such messages could inflame communal tensions and incite further violence.
Condemning these developments in the “strongest possible terms”, the bishops’ body urged both the Union and state governments to take urgent and visible action against individuals and organisations spreading hatred and violence.
The CBCI appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to ensure strict enforcement of the law and proactive protection for Christian communities across the country.
It said such steps were necessary to ensure that Christmas could be celebrated peacefully, in an atmosphere of security, harmony and mutual respect.