Kochi: In a powerful letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the central leadership of the Catholic Congress has raised serious concern over the escalating attacks on Christians in Chhattisgarh and Odisha, denouncing the violence as a grave threat to India's secular fabric and democratic ethos.
The letter, jointly signed by Catholic Congress Global Director Fr. Philip Kaviyil and Global President Prof. Rajiv Kochu Parampil, condemns the targeted violence against Christians and blames extremist outfits like the Bajrang Dal for orchestrating the assaults. It highlights the growing pattern of mob justice and hate-driven campaigns against minority communities, warning that silence from those in power could signal dangerous complicity.
“The Constitution guarantees every citizen religious freedom and protection. But what's unfolding across India shows a glaring failure in upholding those rights,” the letter states. “Remaining silent in the face of organized injustice is a betrayal of democratic values.”
Fr. Kaviyil emphasized that the safety of believers and Christian institutions is non-negotiable and urged swift legal action against perpetrators of the recent violence. Prof. Rajiv echoed this sentiment, saying that continued inaction from the central government would only embolden communal forces and deepen religious divides.
The Catholic Congress stressed that these attacks are not isolated but part of a growing pattern of communal hostility, fueled by hate speech and intolerance. The organization called on the Prime Minister to issue a strong public rejection of such violence and ensure mechanisms are in place to protect minority rights.
As incidents of anti-Christian violence continue to rise, the Catholic Congress warns that India is facing a pivotal moment where secularism must be defended not just in words, but through urgent, visible action.