AICU raises alarm over intimidation of Christians in several States; warns of threats to peace from revival of anti-conversion laws

By A Representative 

The All India Catholic Union (AICU), Asia’s oldest laity organisation, has expressed deep concern over increasing incidents of intimidation and violence against Christian communities in Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. In a press statement issued after its working committee meeting in Jharsuguda, Odisha, the 106-year-old body warned that the revival of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, threatens communal harmony and indigenous coexistence.

The AICU called upon both Union and state governments to act decisively to end hate speech, targeted violence, and the coercion of religious minorities, Dalits, and indigenous peoples. It highlighted reports documenting 834 incidents of anti-Christian violence by December 2024, with Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh identified as hotspots for mob attacks and social ostracism.

The Union also condemned recent remarks by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, who proposed amendments to the state’s anti-conversion law that could make religious conversion of women a capital offence.

In addition, AICU urged swift rehabilitation for over 60,000 internally displaced persons in Manipur, many of whom continue to live in makeshift camps even after the imposition of President’s rule.

Despite the grim scenario, the AICU maintains that the broader Indian society is not complicit in these hate campaigns and called for accountability from those in power.

The AICU extended prayers for the ailing Pope Francis, praising his leadership on global challenges such as climate change, social inequality, and violence.