Hindu convert dies in train 'mishap'

A Hindu convert to Christianity died recently in a train mishap which the Christian community in India see as the latest example of religious persecution by Hindu fundamentalists.

Bansi Lal, 18, died, January 12, after three days of agonising pain following an incident in which he was thrown off a train last Tuesday.

Though the police have called it a simple case of suicide, Christians have refused to buy the story.

Bansi Lal was on his way back from a meeting of the Pentecostal community in Devas district of Madhya Pradesh, when unidentified persons threw him off the train, AsiaNews has reported.

Though Bansi Lal was rushed to a hospital, the medical staff were helpless as his injuries were too severe – stones were even embedded in his skull.

He succumbed to his injuries last Friday, without being able to give his version of the events. Hence, the police have concluded that it was a case of "suicide."

According to Indira Ayengar, chairwoman of the Madhya Pradesh–Chattisgarh Christian Forum, suspicions point in the direction of Hindu radical outfit Bajrang Dal activists, an organisation that is quite active in the area.

"After a lull, Bajrang Dal activists have increased their attacks against Christians in the state, especially at Christmas time," Ayengar said.

Bansi Lal had converted to Christianity about two years back and had faced life threats ever since. Even his family did not approve of his decision.