NHRC asks Jharkhand for report on persecuted Christians

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has ordered the district authorities of Jharkhand to submit a detailed report on the issue within four weeks, taking cognizance of the alleged atrocities against Christians taking place in the constituency.

The NHRC had taken cognizance of a complaint filed by the Christian Community Welfare Council of India on January 23 in connection with the physical assault of Krishna Koda and his mother by local people at Kasira village under Jagannathpur block, home constituency of Jharkhand chief minister Madhu Koda.

Council president S.R. Das, in his complaint to the NHRC, had alleged that the non–Christian tribals are torturing Krishna and his family without any valid reasons. The victims are not being allowed to take water from public well as well and a village pond. "The neighbours of Krishna alleged that Krisha had been indulging in converting tribals into Christians," Das said.

When Krishna was returning home from his farmland on November 23 last year, he was attacked by some villagers, for lodging a complaint with Chaibasa sub–divisional officer. His mother who rushed to help Krishna was also attacked. The attackers had also threatened him with dire consequences if they dared to lodge a case against them.

However, Krishna mustered courage to bring the matter to the attention of the Jagannathpur police station officer–in–charge and deputy commissioner Ravi Shankar Verma, requesting them to provide them safety.

According to news sources, the village chief of Kasira, Bhim Sen, had brokered a deal between the victim and villagers persuading both parties agreed to live peacefully.

Verma said the local police and Chaibasa sub–divisional officer had been asked to look into the matter. "The district administration is committed to provide harmonious atmosphere in the village. We will report to the NHRC within the deadline," Verma assured.