Indian prime minister condemns, but downplays, anti-Christian violence

September 30, 2008

During a joint press conference with French President Nicolas Sarkozy and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh condemned but downplayed recent anti-Christian violence in his nation. ‘We were impressed by the clarity with which the prime minister has condemned these attacks,’ said Barroso, with Sarkozy adding, ‘We are pleased to reaffirm our friendship with the Indian prime minister. He is a very courageous man.’ Singh nonetheless did his best to minimize the perceived severity of the attacks, characterizing them as ‘sporadic.’

The latest summary report from AsiaNews tells a very different story:

From 24 August to 29 September a violent anti-Christian campaign has killed 59 Christians, destroyed or damaged 177 churches, set fire to 4,300 homes, laid waste 13 schools and colleges, created 50,000 refugees and injured 18,000 people.

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Singh defends before EU India’s secular nature (ICNS)
• EU hopes Delhi will arrest anti-Christian criminals (ICNS)
• Anti-Christian violence getting worse (AsiaNews)