Hindu Leader Calls For Attacks On Christians In India

Hindu leader and social media influencer Aadesh Soni has come under heavy criticism after urging a rally against Christians in Chhattisgarh State, accusing them of involvement in cattle slaughter.

Soni’s call to action, delivered through a widely shared video and an open letter, has raised serious concerns about potential violence against the Christian community. The Chhattisgarh Christian Forum (CGCF) was the first to condemn his remarks, which allegedly included calls for mass gatherings on March 1 across three Christian-majority villages with the intent to kill residents and commit sexual violence against women.

The video and letter, shared via Soni’s social media platforms, have since drawn condemnation from international Christian organisations. Following the backlash, Soni released another video denying the allegations and attempting to enlist Christian leaders to vouch for his character.

However, concerns over his initial statements led A.C. Michael, National Coordinator of the United Christian Forum (UCF), to escalate the matter to the National Commission for Minorities (NCM). In response, the NCM urged the Chhattisgarh government to take steps to ensure the safety of the Christian community, according to a letter dated February 25, obtained by Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW).

Chhattisgarh has been a hotspot for religious tensions, with reports of increasing attacks against Christians. The UCF recorded a rise in such incidents in India, from 127 cases in 2014 to 834 in 2024. The organisation, which runs a helpline for persecuted Christians, has voiced deep concerns about the growing hostility toward religious minorities in the state.

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Amid the controversy, Soni has filed a First Information Report (FIR) against CGCF President Arun Pannalal, accusing him of spreading false information. However, Pannalal insists his claims are accurate. Law enforcement officials, after examining his phone and other devices, have found no evidence to support allegations of misinformation.

Mervyn Thomas, Founder President of CSW, strongly condemned the call for violence, stating:

“CSW is deeply concerned by these blatant calls to attack religious minorities, in this instance Christians, in India’s Chhattisgarh State. We urge the relevant authorities to investigate these claims thoroughly, and if they are found to be true, to ensure that Mr Soni and anyone who has supported him face appropriate legal consequences. We also call on local law enforcement to take measures to ensure the Christians who will be directly affected by what has been said are guaranteed protection.”

Authorities in Chhattisgarh have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. However, advocacy groups continue to push for urgent intervention to prevent potential violence against Christian communities in the state.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Content Credit| originally published by https://premierchristian.news/

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