‘I am appalled that despite the lockdowns, non-state actors are emboldened to take things into their own hands. They are not afraid of the law and the authorities, because they see this as a service to the nation.’ Nehemiah Christie, human rights defender

Discrimination and violence against religious minorities including mob vigilantism, violence, and surveillance of home churches by non-state actors, has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find out more at csw.org.uk/india

Sunday 24 January

In September 2020 seven Christians belonging to the Khariya tribal group in Bheri Kudar village, Simdega District, Jharkhand state were attacked by a mob who were responding to allegations that the Christians were involved in the beef trade – allegations that were later proved to be false. Pray that attacks against religious minorities would stop.

Monday 25 January

Father Stan Swamy, 83, a Jesuit priest and long-time activist on tribal rights, was arrested in October 2020 by the National Intelligence Agency and is being held under the draconian Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. He believes he was targeted because of his campaigning for minority rights. Pray protection over him and that all charges would be dropped.

Tuesday 26 January

Today is Republic Day, a day to honour the constitution. In recent years the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has been making attempts to dismantle the constitution and push for a Hindu Rashtra (Hindu nation). Pray that the rights laid out in the constitution will be upheld by those in government.

Wednesday 27 January

In October 2020 the wall of a Roman Catholic cemetery in Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu was knocked down and 37 tombstones were vandalised. Give thanks that the local authority has agreed to pay for the rebuilding of the damaged properties. Pray for peace between the communities in the district.

Thursday 28 January

Pray for protection and emotional healing for Christian families in Kondagaon District, Chhattisgarh who had their homes ransacked and farmland and property destroyed by a large mob in September 2020, after refusing to donate money towards a local Hindu festival.

Friday 29 January

‘When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise – in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?’ (Psalm 56:3-4) Pray these verses over all those facing discrimination and persecution because of their religious belief in India. May they know that God is with them.

Saturday 30 January

Father God, we thank you that we can put our trust and hope in you. We lift up the nation of India to you today, and we ask for an end to the attacks on religious minorities, that they would be able to freely practise their religion or belief without fear. Amen.

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