This May, the 1.2 billion citizens of the worlds largest democracy will go to the polls for a general election. India is often praised for its economic developments, yet inequality and marginalisation are still common.

Communal violence such as the attacks on the Christian community in Odisha State (formerly Orissa) in 2008 and more recently in Muzaffanagar have caused massive displacement of minority faith communities. Many victims of violence are still waiting for justice. Even more concerning is the fact that civil society activists working on these issues are experiencing increasing harassment and intimidation.

This week, please:

• Thank God for the opportunity the upcoming election represents for a new start for India;
• Pray that the election would take place peacefully, and that religious minorities would not be targeted;
• Pray that the new Indian government will govern justly for all India’s citizens;
• Ask God to comfort and strengthen the families of victims of communal violence, as they wait for justice;
• Pray for grassroots activists working for human rights, that they would be strengthened in the face of opposition;
• Ask God to change the hearts of extremist groups who target vulnerable communities;
• Ask God to bless and encourage CSW’s South Asia team, particularly as new members of staff join the team.