On May 27, 2026, Hindu nationalist groups stormed and disrupted a two-day Christian spiritual convention held at a privately owned hotel in the city of Ratlam, in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The attackers used accusations of forced conversions as a pretext, a recurring and largely unsubstantiated allegation that has been systematically used to justify attacks on Christians in BJP-governed states. The event brought together dozens of believers for prayer, worship and biblical teaching.
This episode follows a documented pattern of increasing attacks on India’s Christian community. In March 2026, a congregation of 20 Christians in Maharashtra was violently ambushed by Hindu radicals, leaving Pastor Raj Uday seriously injured. In December 2025, Christian carol singers were assaulted by a mob in Telangana state. Human rights organizations recorded nearly 900 incidents of anti-Christian violence in 2025 alone, an average of two to three attacks per day.
This phenomenon is directly linked to the rise of Hindu nationalism (Hindutva) and the political use of anti-conversion laws in force in several Indian states. These laws, drafted in intentionally vague terms, are used to criminalize evangelism and suppress the religious freedom of minorities. USCIRF has repeatedly warned that the attacks are not isolated incidents but part of a systemic pattern linked to the advance of religious nationalism.
Pray for Christian leaders in India who face constant threats as they gather their congregations. Intercede for the repeal of anti-conversion laws and for Indian Christians to enjoy the religious freedom guaranteed by their country’s Constitution. Ask for wisdom for advocacy organizations that document and speak out against these violations. May the persecuted Church in India be sustained by the solidarity and prayers of the worldwide Body of Christ.
