CBCI expresses its deep anguish and alarm over the growing climate of hostility and violence directed against Christians in India

[AC Michael]

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) at a press conference held at its headquarters in New Delhi on Monday, 28^th July 2025 expressed its deep anguish and alarm over the growing climate of hostility and violence directed against minority communities in the country. Gripped by fear and pain, minorities find themselves increasingly vulnerable amidst rising attacks by communal elements and the disturbing apathy of those entrusted with enforcing the law and upholding constitutional values. In light of these grave developments, the CBCI gave a clarion call to the Nation.

 

CBCI further went on to say that escalating the ongoing saga of targeted and communal violence around the country, on 17th June, 2025 Shri. Gopichand Padalkar, BJP MLA is reported to have provoked the public against Christians at Kupwad (Sangli), Maharashtra. He has allegedly spoken the following words, among others, to instigate people against minorities:

 

'Whoever beats the first priest will get a prize of rupees five lakhs, whoever beats the second will get four lakhs and the third will get three lakhs.’ Increased price of eleven lakhs Price was also offered.

 

Please refer to the attached press release for the complete statement.

 

Thanks & regards,

A C MIchael

A C Michael (Full Name: Michael Anthony Cruz)

Former Member of Delhi Minorities Commission, Govt of NCT of Delhi 

President, Federation of Catholic Associations of Archdiocese of Delhi 

National Coordinator - United Christian Forum, India (UCF India)

National Coordinator - Inter-Faith & Ecumenical Relations of All India Catholic Union (AICU)

Delhi State President of All India Catholic Union

Independent Director, Touchwood Group of Companies

Chairman & Managing Director, Sirio India Inductive Components Pvt. Ltd

Mobile: +91-9818155290

UCF Toll-Free Helpline: 1-800-208-4545

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UCF toll-free helpline number: 1-800-208-4545 was launched on 19^th January 2015 with the aim of upholding fundamental freedom and promotion of values of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity of India. 

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