Hindu leader and social media influencer Aadesh Soni has sparked widespread condemnation after calling for a rally against Christians in Chhattisgarh State, accusing them of involvement in cattle slaughter.
The call to action, made via a widely circulated video and an open letter, has raised concerns about potential violence against the Christian community.
The Chhattisgarh Christian Forum (CGCF) was the first to denounce Soni’s remarks, which allegedly included a call for a mass gathering on March 1 across three Christian-majority villages with the intent to kill residents and commit acts of sexual violence against women.
The video and letter, shared through Soni’s social media accounts, have since drawn criticism from international Christian organisations.
Following the backlash, Soni released another video denying the allegations and attempting to enlist Christian leaders to vouch for his character.
However, concerns over his initial statements prompted A.C. Michael, National Coordinator of the United Christian Forum (UCF), to raise the issue with the National Commission for Minorities (NCM).
In response, the NCM urged the Chhattisgarh government to take measures to ensure the safety of the Christian community, according to a letter dated February 25th seen by Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW).
Chhattisgarh has been a focal point for religious tensions, with the UCF reporting an increase in targeted attacks against Christians in India, from 127 cases in 2014 to 834 in 2024.
The organisation, which operates a helpline for persecuted Christians, has expressed serious concerns over the growing hostility toward religious minorities in the state.
Soni has filed a First Information Report (FIR) against CGCF President Arun Pannalal, accusing him of spreading false information.
However, Pannalal maintains that his claims are accurate. Law enforcement officials have investigated his phone and other devices and have found no evidence to support allegations of misinformation.
Mervyn Thomas, Founder President of CSW, condemned the call to violence, stating: “CSW is deeply concerned by these blatant calls to attack religious minorities, in this instance Christians, in India’s Chhattisgarh State.
"We urge the relevant authorities to investigate these claims thoroughly, and if they are found to be true, to ensure that Mr. Soni and anyone who has supported him face appropriate legal consequences.
"We also call on local law enforcement to take measures to ensure the Christians who will be directly affected by what has been said are guaranteed protection.”
Authorities in Chhattisgarh have yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident, but advocacy groups continue to press for urgent intervention to prevent potential violence against Christian communities in the state.
