Christian families’ homes demolished in India after targeted attack

Four Christian families in Midapalli village, Gadchiroli District, have had their homes demolished.

The attacks are part of a campaign of threats and violence, according to Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW).

Tensions began on 11th January when villagers confronted six families, around 25 people in total, and demanded that the families renounce their Christian faith. Despite receiving death threats, the families refused.

The next day, around 20 villagers attacked the families. They again demanded that the families abandon their faith, but when the families refused, the mob demolished four homes.

The families then went to Kavande Police Station to seek help, but the police reportedly sided with the villagers.

Officers reportedly threatened the families and warned that their tribal identity cards and ration supplies could be cancelled. CSW said this encouraged the attackers to continue issuing threats.

On 14th January, police summoned the local pastor. Officers reportedly questioned him about his ministry, called his work “andhashradha” (superstition) and forbade him from visiting the families.

The affected families remain in their destroyed homes. They have no proper shelter and face ongoing threats in harsh winter conditions.

Their remote location has made outside help difficult. The six families, along with other Christians in the village, plan to take the matter to the District Collector.

CSW Founder President Mervyn Thomas said, “It is deeply concerning to witness the grave and unacceptable assault and humiliation these families have been subjected to on account of their religion. Even more alarming is the failure of the police to protect these vulnerable citizens.

He further went on to say, “This has emboldened the perpetrators. We call upon the district administration and state authorities to intervene as a matter of urgency. They must ensure the safety of the affected families. They should restore their rights and compensate them for the loss of their homes. Those responsible must be held to account under the law.”

The six families, together with other Christians in the village, are preparing to escalate the matter to the District Collector to secure urgent intervention and protection.

This article was originally published on  https://premierchristian.news/us/news/article/christian-families-homes-demolished-in-india-after-targeted-attack