The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) has written an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing deep concern over what it described as a growing pattern of attacks, intimidation and hate speech against Christians across India, particularly during the recent Christmas season.
In the letter dated December 31, the NBCC said incidents targeting Christians were no longer isolated and instead reflected a worrying national trend that threatened the freedom of religion guaranteed by the Constitution.
Cites over 600 incidents in 2025
Citing data compiled by the United Christians Forum, the council stated that more than 600 incidents of violence were reported between January and October 2025 — averaging nearly two incidents every day.
According to the letter, these included mob assaults, disruption of church services, public humiliation, and the demolition of homes and places of worship.
‘Ironic for world’s largest democracy’
Calling the situation deeply ironic for a country that prides itself on being the world’s largest democracy, the NBCC said citizens were being targeted simply for practising or celebrating their faith.
The council also expressed disappointment over what it termed the silence of Christian legislators, including those belonging to the ruling BJP, on incidents reported from states such as Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Assam and Rajasthan.
It warned that the absence of strong public condemnation at critical moments had emboldened extremist elements.
Rejects questions on Christian patriotism
Reiterating the Christian community’s contribution to nation-building — particularly in education, healthcare and social service — the NBCC firmly rejected allegations questioning the community’s nationalism.
It said Christian patriotism is rooted in loyalty to the Constitution and the democratic values of equality, justice and fraternity.
Warning over fear and hate speech
The NBCC cautioned that the pace and intensity of recent attacks were creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, making it increasingly difficult for Christians to practise their faith openly.
It also raised concern over what it described as the normalisation of hate speech, including calls for violence against religious minorities within political spaces.
Appealing directly to the Prime Minister, the council urged urgent intervention to uphold India’s constitutional commitment to secularism and religious freedom, stressing that democracy must be a lived value ensuring dignity and security for all citizens.
The NBCC concluded by assuring continued prayers for the nation and reaffirming its commitment to peace, unity and nation-building.