This incident targeted seven pastors who had been spreading the Gospel in the region. Among them was Raj*, who had come to Christ in 1999 and had since established a thriving church despite facing opposition from extremist groups like Bajrang Dal.
The Bajrang Dal, a right-wing Hindu nationalist organization, is known for its aggressive promotion of Hindu nationalism. Moreover, it has been implicated in numerous incidents of religious violence, particularly against groups such as Christians and Muslims. Their actions often involve intimidation, forced conversions and disruption of non-Hindu religious activities.
As the mob demanded the believers face them, the police arrived, seemingly on the side of the mob. Six of the seven pastors persecuted in India were taken into custody, where they faced interrogation and abuse.
Dhruv*, the party’s host, recounted his experience: “When the policeman asked who my father was, it just came out of my mouth, ‘Jesus Christ.'” His answer earned him two hard strikes with a baton, yet he shouted, “Victory to Jesus Christ!”
While in jail, these pastors persecuted in India were forced to do sit-ups while being beaten with sandals. They were also ordered to bow to idols, and when they refused, they faced more abuse. Initially terrified, they soon found peace in remembering Christ’s suffering.
Remarkably, their peaceful demeanor began to influence their fellow inmates. One prisoner even brought them a Bible and asked them to read it. The pastors saw this as an opportunity to share the Gospel within the prison walls.
After 11 days, all seven pastors persecuted in India were released, though their case remains ongoing and their churches closed. Despite the hardships—including Dhruv’s excommunication from his ministry—their faces beam with the joy of being persecuted for their faith.
Your prayers can make a difference in the lives of these brave pastors and the believers they serve in India.
Please pray for a swift and just conclusion to their ongoing trial, strength and steadfastness for the pastors persecuted in India and their families, healing and resilience for the young girl who witnessed the traumatic event, the reopening of their churches and the continuation of their ministries, and that the hearts of those who persecuted them be changed. In the words of Romans 12:12, pray that these pastors persecuted in India would “rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
*Representative names used for security.
Thank you to Manish Lal, who reported this story.
