Protestant church attacked in Mumbai; ‘forced conversion’ arrests in Bangalore

November 18, 2008

A group of 30-40 suspected Hindu radicals on Saturday attacked a Church of God prayer hall in Mumbai (Bombay), India’s largest city, and beat the congregation’s pastor. Condemning the attack, Auxiliary Bishop Bosco Penha of Bombay urged Christians not to become ‘defensive and too cautious’ in the face of such attacks. ‘It is time,’ he said, ‘we asserted our fundamental right to practice and propagate our faith.’

In Bangalore-- capital of the southwestern state of Karnataka-- three Christians were arrested on charges of attempting to convert others forcibly, and one was severely beaten. The Christian who was beaten was praying for the healing of his paralyzed nephew.

 

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Further information:

• Mumbai Church, Pastor Attacked; Assailants' Arrest Demanded (UCAN)
• Christians arrested in Bangalore on conversion charges (ICNS)