This year, India has witnessed multiple incidents of harassment, threats, and violence against the Christian community during the Christmas season, raising concerns over religious tolerance in the country.
Human rights organisations have described these attacks as coordinated rather than isolated, creating a climate of fear and insecurity among Christians nationwide.
Dominic Savio Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay, expressed deep concern over the incidents and urged Christians not to give in to fear or hatred.
He emphasised that these actions are the work of a few extremist elements and do not represent the broader values of Indian society. Bishop Fernandes also highlighted the long tradition of cooperation and mutual respect between the majority Hindu community and Christian institutions, including schools and hospitals.
Reports indicate that from the start of 2025 to November, over 700 attacks on Christians were recorded, many occurring during the Christmas season.
Organisations including the United Christian Forum, Open Doors, and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) have strongly condemned the violence.
In a statement issued on 23 December, the CBCI called on India’s Home Minister Amit Shah to take immediate measures to protect the lives and property of Christians, ensuring a peaceful Christmas.
Some attacks have been linked to unfounded accusations of forced religious conversion and misuse of anti-conversion laws.
Extremist groups such as the Vishva Hindu Parishad have reportedly issued instructions discouraging participation in Christmas celebrations and opposing the display of festive decorations.
