India (MNN) — Tensions escalate between India and Pakistan following Tuesday’s terror attack in the contested Kashmir region. India closed its main border crossing with Pakistan, expelled its military diplomats, and suspended a landmark water-sharing treaty.

At least 26 people were killed when gunmen opened fire in the Baisaran Valley, a popular tourist destination. The attack is considered India’s deadliest since 2008.

“Most of them were Indian tourists, as well as a couple of foreign tourists from the UAE and Nepal,” John Pudiate with Bibles For The World says.

Kashmir, a territory claimed by both India and Pakistan, has been a flashpoint for decades, but attacks on tourists have been rare.

“This beautiful region, right on the edge of the Himalayas, has been an area of contention between Pakistan and India, Muslim and Hindu, for the last 75-plus years,” Pudaite says.

“There had been, just prior to this, reports of Indian military attacks or crackdowns on the Muslim militant activities in the region. Immediately, when I heard the news, I thought, ‘Oh boy, this is probably in reaction to those arrests,’” he continues.

“This attack was probably one of the most devastating in recent years; the entire country is grieving over this.”

Christians are in the crosshairs whenever conflict arises between India’s Hindu and Muslim populations. “They’re very wary of the ‘kick the dog’ reaction,” Pudaite says.

“Christians are the ‘dog’ on the sidelines that had nothing to do with it, but there may be attacks on churches, pastors, or missionaries.”

This hostility doesn’t stop believers from sharing the hope of Christ. Pudaite asks Christians in the region to be salt and light and reach out during this national grief.

“I have heard reports of Christians in the region trying to help out in whatever way they can,” he says. “Across the country, Christians have been called upon by some national bodies to pray into the situation.”

Pray for wisdom and restraint in the Indian government’s response so the situation does not escalate further.

 

Header image depicts India’s Baisaran Valley, often called a mini-Switzerland for its mountainous view and lush landscape.

(Wikimedia Commons)