02/04/2021 India (International Christian Concern) – On January 31, a mob of radical Hindu nationalists attacked a Christian worship service in southern India. As a result of the attack, 28 Christians were injured, including six that required hospitalization.
The attack took place in Horahalli village, located in the Ramnagara District of Karnataka. According to witnesses, a mob of nearly 30 radicals attacked the Christians of Jeevadayaka Prardana Mandira Church as they gathered for worship.
The radicals shouted slogans such as “Jai Sri Ram” as they stormed into the worship service. Members of the mob immediately attacked the church’s pastor as others attacked members of the congregation.
“They didn’t say a word as they pushed themselves inside the church hall,” Pastor Subash, head pastor of Jeevadayaka Prardana Mandira Church, told International Christian Concern (ICC). “I was shattered as everyone in the hall were screaming and crying.”
“I collapsed to the ground after several punches,” Pastor Subash continued. “They took my mobile phone and damaged it completely. I am unable to walk now and my wife and daughter received injuries as they tried to protect me from the mob.”
According to other witnesses, members of the mob took Bibles from the congregants and used them to beat the Christians. The mob also damaged other properties in the church hall.
The attack was reported to local police and a First Information Report (FIR no. 0017/2021) was filed against members of the mob. However, no arrests have been made by police despite the fact that four leaders of the mob have been identified by name.
Nearly 120 Christians regularly worship at Jeevadayaka Prardana Mandira Church which rents a local hall for its services. According to Pastor Subash, the congregation remains frightened by the incident and fears future attack.
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