RSS activists assault believers in Madhya Pradesh

Supporters of the Hindu nationalist outfit, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bajrang Dal, attacked a pastor and other believers near Ratlam in Madhya Pradesh, accusing them of converting people to Christianity.

On March 6, Pastor Binoy Kuriakose and 10 other believers were distributing some Christian literature in two groups. They had made rounds to about 150 homes, distributing literature published by My Hope India.

Suddenly, RSS and Bajrang Dal activists surrounded one group and began beating up the its members. One member, however, managed to escape and informed Pastor Binoy.

But before the pastor and his group could react, the Hindu activists surrounded them too and began to beat up the pastor and his group. Somehow, the believers managed to break free and fled into a house and locked themselves up in a room.

Safe inside, Pastor Binoy informed the police from his mobile phone about the incident. The police immediately jumped into action and arrived at the scene and brought the situation under control.

Subsequently, the Sub–inspector (SI) of the police station, who was briefed about the incident, requested the believers not to press charges against their attackers for fear that the RSS would blow up the issue and cause the pastor and his team behind bars.

Later, the same day, the RSS falsely alleged in the local media that the Christian group had asked them to come for a meeting in Ratlam, where the "head bishop" would be present, and those who embrace Christianity would be given Rs. 2 lakh each.

The police, however, have been very supportive of the believers, with the police officer in charge of the station saying, "There was no report of allurement, but the group just distributed their books. Every one has a right to propagate their faith."

Pastor Binoy and co–workers identified only as Rajeev, 35, and Vijay, 33, were treated for head, shoulder and leg injuries.