Christians attacked in Haryana

Several Christians in Lakarpur, Faridabad were attacked by a mob of Hundu fundamentalists, December 20, the Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) has reported.

According to information obtained by EFI, about 50 Bajrang Dal activists, attacked the believers, causing "physical harm to some of the church members, including Rakesh and Suman in whose home a local church meets."

"They also threatened that church services may not be held here in the future," EFI reported, adding that the activists left after threatening them that a "special function would be held on December 24 that would have to be attended by the church members who would have to take the name of their Hindu god."

"Though a FIR was not lodged on this occasion, the local Pradhan (village headman) apologized for the incident and assured that the December 24 incident would not take place and also assured the safety of the church members," Rev. Richard Howell, general secretary, EFI, said.

EFI has urged the police to take matters such as these seriously and act swiftly so that Christians will not have to live under threats or feel unsafe.