A Christian pastor and his wife in India were recently released on bail after spending nearly two years in prison. Their release comes amidst growing concerns over the use of anti-conversion laws in the country, which have led to the detention of hundreds of Christians.
Pastor Ashok Yadav and his wife, Phoola Devi, were arrested in April 2023 in Uttar Pradesh under the state’s controversial anti-conversion law. Their arrest occurred after Hindu fundamentalists and police disrupted a prayer meeting.
The couple’s release comes as a relief, but it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Christians in India. According to the United Christian Forum (UCF), over 110 clergy members have been arrested under these laws across 12 Indian states.
The UCF, along with over 400 Christians and church groups, has expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of anti-Christian violence in India. The memorandum submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi details 745 such incidents since 2014.
These laws, which have been criticized by the Supreme Court for potentially violating constitutional rights, are often used to target and persecute Christian communities.
The situation is further exacerbated by the lack of representation for Christians on the National Commission for Minorities. The position for a Christian representative has remained vacant for the past five years, despite legal requirements.
The UCF continues to advocate for religious freedom and calls upon the Indian government to take decisive action to restore peace and harmony among all citizens.
