Faith, justice, and resilience: the struggle for religious freedom in India

(Photo: Pixabay/Eddy Pellegrino) In the world’s largest democracy, a battle for the soul of the nation is unfolding. The story of Dr. Ajai Lall and his brother Rajkamal David Lall serves as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of faith and the critical role of an impartial judiciary in protecting minority rights in India. … Read more

US report highlights global religious freedom concerns, with focus on India

(Photo: Unsplash/Joshua Olsen) The United States government on 26 June 2024 released its annual report on religious freedom worldwide, offering a rare criticism of India, a close US partner, while also highlighting growing concerns about religious intolerance globally, particularly against Jews and Muslims. Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, presented the report, pointing out … Read more

Widow of Christian Killed for His Faith in India Flees Village

(Photo: Pixabay) The young widow of a Christian in Chhattisgarh who was killed for his faith is living in fear a month after she fled for her life. “I saw them kill my husband right before my eyes,” said Jime Kawasi, whose husband, 22-year-old Kosa Kawasi, was slain in Bastar District on May 4. “I … Read more

Blistering heatwave grips India, death toll mounts to 87

(Photo: Unsplash/James Day) A relentless heatwave has tightened its grip over large swathes of India, with the death toll from suspected heat-related incidents climbing to a staggering 87. According to reports, a total of 45 people have tragically lost their lives in 36 hours alone. The torrid conditions have exacted a heavy toll, with 19 … Read more

Church of North India breaks new ground with consecration of first female bishop

First ever female bishop, the Right Reverend Violet Nayak. The images are from Anglican Communion X page. Anglican Communion is a global movement of Christians in 42 autonomous member Churches across more than 165 countries. (Photo: Anglican Communion/X) In a historic moment for gender equality, the Church of North India (CNI) has consecrated its first … Read more

Supreme Court calls for comprehensive sentencing policy in India

Central Wing of the Supreme Court of India where the Chief Justice’s courtroom is situated. (Photo: Subhashish Panigrahi/Wikimedia Commons) In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has urged the Union Government to explore the feasibility of introducing a comprehensive sentencing policy to address the wide disparities in sentencing convicts across the nation. The … Read more

Invitation for Modi-Gandhi public debate sparks political storm in India

Modi-Gandhi public debate (Photo: India Today/YouTube Screenshot) As India’s heated general election campaign intensifies, a trio of respected public figures has issued an unexpected invitation – for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opposition leader Rahul Gandhi to participate in a public debate. The proposal from two former senior judges and a veteran journalist has sparked … Read more

Christians in India face escalating attacks and disruptions

A 20-foot tall Jesus statue stands before it was demolished by the government in India’s Karnataka state in February 2022. (Photo: Screenshot/YouTube) In March and April 2024, India’s Christian minority community faced an escalating number of attacks, disruptions of religious gatherings, and legal cases across multiple states, highlighting the continued challenges to freedom of religion … Read more

Christians pray as India goes to the polls

(Photo: EFI) As the world’s second-most populous country prepares to vote, India’s Christians will be joining together in prayer and fasting as they ask for God’s guidance and protection in a nation that is increasingly hostile to their faith. Priya Sharma (name changed for security reasons), who partners with Open Doors International, a global NGO … Read more

Election fever grips India as first phase of voting concludes

(Photo: Unsplash/Annie Spratt) The stage is set for a high-stakes battle as India’s mammoth 2024 Lok Sabha elections got underway on 19 April with the first phase of voting across 21 states and 102 constituencies. Over 166 million electorate, including 3.5 million first-time voters and 35 million young voters aged 20-29, exercised their democratic right, … Read more