Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: December 7, 2024
Christians in some parts of Chhattisgarh State have effectively been given an ultimatum: renounce your faith or leave your homes.
Three weeks ago, eight village councils (panchayats) in the Sukma District of Chhattisgarh passed a joint resolution that bans any Christians from staying in their villages. Approximately 100 Christians are affected by the order.
The resolution declared that if they fail to renounce their faith or leave the villages, then all their fields, belongings, and property would be looted.
One village chief (or ‘sarpanch’) claimed that the rule of the village council superseded the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to freedom of religion or belief.
Please pray for the state authorities to intervene as a matter of urgency.
Some damage has already been done.
On 18 November, the Christians went to the police to file a written complaint and provide audio evidence of what the village chief had said. However, the police initially refused to file a First Information Report (FIR) and instead asked them to take them to their field.
When they arrived at the field, they saw that a mob of at least 1,500 people had looted the harvest. The mob then demanded that the Christians renounce their faith or leave the village, and the police left the area without offering further help. A First Information Report was eventually registered on 21 November.
At the time of writing, approximately 40 villagers from eight families whose fields were looted have moved away from their land. They are staying in a church building in Michwar.
We pray:
- That God will make a way for these Christians to return home without fear of further threats, harassment or intimidation.
- For justice and reparations for any damage done to their properties or livelihoods since the resolution was passed.
- For others around the world who are fleeing war, persecution or other forms of injustice – including those who are more vulnerable because of their religion or belief.
Mighty God, in your power, put the perpetrators of injustice in their place. Bring an end to the conflicts and oppression which have forced so many from their homes and countries. Amen.