Complaint Lodged Against Christian Preachers For Allegedly Exploiting Manipur Crisis To Fan Communal Hatred

In a recent development, a formal complaint has been registered against Christian preachers in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana by Legal Rights activist, Legal Rights Protection Forum, accusing them of engaging in anti-national activities and enabling religious conversions. The complaint, which was addressed to the Union Home Ministry authorities, raises concerns about various incidents, including activities on national holidays and alleged involvement in the Manipur crisis.

The complaint draws attention to the deliberate organization of special Christian worship programs in numerous churches across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on significant national holidays such as August 15th and January 26th. It contends that certain churches are purportedly conducting full-day prayers, camps, and youth retreats on these days with what the complainants term a “malicious intention” of diverting citizens’ focus away from the celebration of Independence Day.

The complainants claim that some posters advertising these August 15th programs allegedly display disrespect to the national flag through alterations and religious inscriptions upon it. Furthermore, the complainants argue that hate-filled speeches have been delivered during these events, targeting freedom fighters and portraying them as “hell-bound disbelievers” due to their supposed lack of faith in Jesus Christ. The complainants assert that these activities are aimed at erasing the memory of India’s freedom struggle and its history from the minds of attendees, especially impressionable young children.

The complaint included screenshots of event flyers and posters, links of various Facebook groups

The complaint cites instances of inflammatory statements attributed to some Christian preachers in the past. These statements purportedly include claims that the national flag is merely a “piece of cloth,” suggestions to divide the country into religiously segregated regions, and allegations of plagiarism in the drafting of the Indian Constitution. Such statements have been criticised for their divisive nature and potential to fuel communal tensions.

The complaint also raises concerns about the alleged involvement of Christian preachers from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in the ongoing crisis in Manipur. According to the complaint, these preachers have been accused of exploiting the crisis to fan communal hatred. Demonstrations, videos, and social media posts have allegedly depicted the Manipur situation as Christian persecution by Hindus in the region. Highly divisive speeches have reportedly been delivered during rallies, further exacerbating tensions.

The article is published on thecommunemag.com