As a third-generation Christian, I represent a persecuted community in my country of origin, India. My family, both maternal and paternal sides, were forced to migrate out of India on account of feeling unsafe and threatened in our own homeland due to ongoing religious persecution and violence. In a recent incidence, an extended family member, his wife, and two additional elderly family members were arrested from their home without any reason provided. They were held in dire conditions for six excruciatingly long months and were deprived of vital medication, water, blankets, and even food. Their only 'crime': their Christian faith, and their Hindu neighbors that weren't keen on the concept of secularism and therefore alerted the local authorities who in turn weaponized their power and law over my timid and soft spoken Christian family members. 

India is home to a population of 2.3 million Christians, according to the Pew Research Center. Despite this significant number, Christians in India face physical abuse, torture, litigation harassment, and unlawful imprisonment, solely due to their religious convictions. Christian women are suffering horrific degrees of assault and public shaming. Local churches are under attack, and parish members are often the subject of violence and false accusations of illegal conversions. Homes of Christian families are regularly subjected to unabashed raids, violence and subsequent arrest. 

This practice of persecution is not just violating human rights but also breaching some of India's own laws. India, as a democratic nation, provides its citizens the right to freely practice their religion under Article 25 of its constitution. However, these incidents paint a rather grim picture of the actual state of affairs.

This petition calls upon the Indian government and international human rights organizations to address this deeply unsettling issue and to introduce protective mechanisms for religious minorities, especially Christians. We are seeking an immediate halt to the persecution, abuse, and rights violations of Christians in India. We urge you to add your signature to affirm your support for this cause.