Last October, a group of Christians were gathered to pray at a home in Sukma District, Chhattisgarh, when a mob burst in and assaulted them, demanding that they abandon their faith.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The next morning, the victims tried to file a First Information Report, which is required to open a police investigation, but were verbally abused and turned away. When they returned to the police station a second time, they were beaten by two police officers \u2013 one of whom had been involved in the initial attack while off duty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is extremely worrying that those who are meant to uphold the law are complicit in these attacks on Christians \u2013 both in their own homes and as they seek justice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Find out more at csw.org.uk\/india<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sunday 20 August<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pray for decisive legal action against the police officers who were involved in these incidents in Sukma District. Ask God to eradicate discrimination and violence from India\u2019s police force, and instead cultivate a fair legal system for all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Monday 21 August<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Station House Officer in Sukma District claimed that he was under orders not to register First Information Reports for incidents of Christian oppression in the district \u2013 an extremely worrying claim in itself. Pray that no-one would be denied justice because of their religion or belief.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tuesday 22 August<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Today is the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief. Reflect on Revelation 21:4 (NLT) as you pray: \u201cHe will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wednesday 23 August<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pray for all who have been displaced, injured, or lost loved ones in the unrest in Manipur state, which began on 3 May between Kuki and Meitei ethnic communities. There have been more than 4,000 cases of arson, and hundreds of houses and churches have been destroyed so far.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thursday 24 August<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Kuki people in Manipur are a predominantly Christian tribal community. Many have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods since clashes broke out, and are living in constant fear. Pray for provision and protection from further attack. Pray also that those spreading hate and misinformation about the Kuki community will stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friday 25 August<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
This week marks the anniversary of the widespread violence against Christians in the Kandhamal District of Odisha in 2008. At least 90 people died, 5,600 homes were burned and approximately 300 churches were destroyed. Ask God to comfort those who are still awaiting justice, 15 years on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Saturday 26 August<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thank you, Lord, that you are a refuge for the oppressed and a stronghold in times of trouble (Psalm 9:9). We pray protection over India\u2019s religious minorities, and for an end to the targeted violence against Christians, Muslims and Dalits. In your mighty name, Amen.<\/i><\/p>\n\n\n\n