Christians in the central state of Chhattisgarh formed an 80-mile-long human chain to protest the lack of action against a politician for allegedly making derogatory comments about Jesus and Christian conversions.
Raymuni Bhagat, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) member of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly faced backlash after allegedly asking people how they could expect Jesus to solve their problems in a recent public speech. She is also thought to have accused Christian missionaries of conducting illegal conversions.
Her statements, which went viral online, prompted several complaints but no police action.
In response, 11 Christian organisations joined the protest across the Jashpur district, demanding her arrest and removal from office.
Christian leaders argue Bhagat’s remarks incite religious tensions between Hindus.
“There is immense resentment among the Christian community due to Bhagat’s remarks,” Anil Kumar Kispotta, president of the Christian Adivasi Mahasabha told International Christian Concern. “Despite this, the police have not taken any action. We staged a peaceful protest now, but if no action is taken, we will intensify our protests with road blockades.”
Arun Pannalal, president of Chhattisgarh's Christian Forum and founder of Christian political party, Sarv Adi Dal told UCA News Bhagat’s comments were a “planned move to create unrest.” He argues that her comments violate her constitutional duty, and her legislative position should be revoked.
Bhagat has since defended her speech, claiming she was raising awareness about fraudulent conversions.
According to various anti-persecution charities, India’s strict anti-conversion laws have seen Christians experience increasing harassment, leading to false accusations of forced conversions, and creating legal obstacles for religious converts.
Particularly in tribal and rural areas, Christians often face violence and legal scrutiny under these laws, which are seen as disproportionately targeting minority communities.
A new bill, introduced in July 2024, proposes increasing the maximum penalty for fraudulent or forced conversions to 20 years, with the possibility of life imprisonment. It would also allow any individual to file a complaint, not just victims or their families. Additionally, harsher fines and stricter bail provisions are included, making offences non-bailable and more challenging for accused individuals to secure release.
