Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: April 18, 2020
'No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.' 1 Corinthians 10:24
As India’s lockdown was extended this week to stop the spread of the coronavirus, over 100 million people remain stranded and are unable to return home. Hearing from our contacts in Uttar Pradesh and Telangana, left the scripture above imprinted on our minds. In spite of the difficulties they too are facing, they are showing love to others in need.
‘Thousands of people are hungry without food. Some of them got stuck and are staying close to the railway station area without food and money…we are helping those people with food every day.’ Patsy, Uttar Pradesh
‘…We are even approaching enforcement agencies and given them masks, gloves and sanitizers. These police are thankful for our work. They are given [their] duty but they are not given any safety gear by their department or government. So we are giving them some little things which we can.’ Laxmi, Telangana
However, we’ve sadly learned of cases of Christians delivering aid to those in need being falsely accused of conversion under anti-conversion legislation. In one case, a group of Christians was taunted, humiliated and detained by local police, who made false accusations against them under anti-conversion legislation.
At a time when tensions are high in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re concerned that marginalised Christian and Muslim communities could face greater discrimination and harassment.
In summary, please pray:
- Giving thanks for the Christian groups who are providing aid to those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic, often without protective equipment available.
- For an end to the misuse of anti-conversion legislation to make false accusations against religious minorities.
- That all of India’s citizens would be treated fairly and equally whatever their religious beliefs.