Following the attack, the independent church shifted the Christmas event to a different location, fearing an additional attack. The event was safely held on December 15, but the church did not raise any publicity about it due to security concerns.

On December 15, Pastor Bhasker’s car was severely damaged by unknown individuals in Kompally village. “I have given complaint in the police station along with the CCTV footage,” Pastor Bhasker told ICC. “My car parked in front of my house was damaged. They broke the glasses and damaged the body. I suspect it is the work of Hindu radicals, as in the past I was attacked for doing Christian work in the village.”

Pastor Bhasker’s ministry organizes large evangelism meetings and is well known locally. This has made him a target for Hindu radicals in the past.

“Now that the election results are in and there is no give or take situation in terms of religious polarization, the attacks have started to escalate,” Rev. Ronald John, a local Christian leader, told ICC in reaction to the attacks. “Given the year-long, anti-Christian hate campaign, we expect a rough season this year. The newly elected government should take notice of this increased persecution against Christians and provide protection.”

As the Christmas holiday approaches, please keep India’s Christians in your prayers.

For interviews, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: press@persecution.org