Story perspectives

80+ Attacks on Christians Raise Religious Freedom Concerns

1/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

More than 80 violent incidents against Christians occurred during the Christmas holiday week, linked to right-wing Hindu groups such as the RSS and Bajrang Dal, targeting churches and vendors.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended Christmas events, failing to address the violence occurring daily in the country.
Critics say authorities are complicit, often silent or indifferent to these attacks, raising concerns about religious freedom in a secularist nation.

History

Historical Context

Anti-Christian violence in India surged after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power in 1998, with the 2008 Kandhamal riots marking a significant escalation. Following the murder of Hindu leader Lakshmanananda Saraswati, over 50 Christians were killed, and thousands were displaced. Today, violence persists, with over 80 incidents reported during Christmas week, raising concerns about religious freedom in a secular nation.

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Story summary

More than 80 violent incidents against Christians occurred during the Christmas holiday week, linked to right-wing Hindu groups such as the RSS and Bajrang Dal, targeting churches and vendors.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended Christmas events, failing to address the violence occurring daily in the country.
Critics say authorities are complicit, often silent or indifferent to these attacks, raising concerns about religious freedom in a secularist nation.

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