The United Christian Forum (UCF) has revealed violence against Christians in India has reached unprecedented levels, with 745 incidents reported through November 2024. This marks a dramatic rise from 127 incidents recorded in 2014 and represents a nearly six-fold increase over the past decade.

Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of cases at 182, followed by Chhattisgarh with 139. Incidents were reported in 23 of India’s 28 states, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue. The UCF noted that these figures, collected through their toll-free helpline, likely underrepresent the true extent of violence, as many incidents go unreported.

The organisation said: “The seven hundred and forty-five (745) incidents of violence against Christians in India this year till November were reported on UCF Helpline Number. This means many other incidents which may have happened, but were not reported on our hotline, are not included in the total number.”

Exclusions include violence in Manipur, where sectarian conflict has led to significant destruction, including the demolition of over 200 churches in 2023. UCF expressed concern about the lack of governmental attention to these incidents, contrasting it with the swift response to attacks on minorities in neighbouring Bangladesh.

The UCF also raised concerns about systemic issues, including law enforcement bias, citing a report from the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) that alleges police complicity in crimes against Christians. Additionally, the organisation criticised the prolonged absence of Christian representation in national minority commissions and state bodies.

India currently ranks 11th on the Open Doors World Watch List of countries where Christians face the most severe persecution.