Christian family left homeless after violent mob attack

A Christian family has been left homeless and without access to basic amenities following a violent mob attack in Mukaram village, Sukma District, in India’s Chhattisgarh State on the morning of 28 September.

CSW sources report that a group of approximately 60-70 villagers, led by the sarpanch (head of the village administration), targeted the home of Mr Sodi Deva, whose family has been the only Christian family in the village since his conversion from Hinduism four years ago. The assailants broke into their home, demolished the structure, uprooted the crops on which they relied for food, and destroyed furniture and other household belongings.

Deva’s wife, Gangi (32), was dragged out of the house by her sari and harassed in front of the crowd. Their daughter (11) and son (10) witnessed the ordeal as the mob issued death threats, demanding that Deva reconvert to Hinduism.

Fearing for their safety, Deva and his family fled 15km to a neighbouring village, leaving all their possessions behind. They are currently being housed in a church.

On 29 September Deva met with the police superintendent in Sukma District and appealed for protection. However, at the time of writing no action has been taken and no First Information Report (FIR), which is required for the police to open an investigation, has been registered.

CSW’s Founder President Mervyn Thomas said: ‘This brutal attack in Mukaram is not only an assault on one family, but an attack on the fundamental rights and dignity which should be afforded to every Indian citizen. The violence, humiliation and forced displacement endured by Sodi Deva and his family must not go unanswered. CSW calls upon the district administration and police to immediately register an FIR, ensure the safety of this family, and hold the perpetrators accountable under the law.’