Press Release > Washington think tank alerts US

March 12, 2010

India Coalition, of which Policy Institute for Religion and State is a member organization, is visiting the state of Orissa, and Delhi, India.

Christian population in the state of Orissa experienced unprecedented levels of violence and hostility from radical Hindu militant outfits such as Vishwa Hindu Parishad (World Hindu Council) and Rashtriya Svayamsevak Sangh (National Voluntary Corp), during the Christmas eve of 2007. Again the same groups took to violence against Christians, in August of 2008. The killing of one radical Hindu leaders by a Maoist insurgent group was used as a cover to lead a campaign of terror for several days. The police, under the control of the State government stood by to let the mobs carryout their attack with impunity. The State government was in coalition partnership with the radical Hindu party,

Over 30,000 people have lost their belongings and homes. Hundreds of churches, convents, prayer houses, and other church properties were burnt or destroyed by the Hindu radical groups.

Unfortunately, the state government of Orissa has been very slow to respond to the needs of its Christian population. A large number of victims are still said to living in camps and unable to return home for fear of Hindu leaders. Several people charged with offenses such as leading mobs against Christians, are being cleared of all charges against them while only a few accused are being convicted.

India Coalition members who have been closely watching the development in Orissa have decided to make a personal visit between March 12th and 18th. The delegation will meet with the leaders of the government and opposition leaders. The delegation also plans to meet Hindu, Muslim, Sikh and Buddhist religious leaders  along with Christian leaders of all denominations both in Orissa and Delhi, for dialogue in an effort to bring understanding and mutual respect for each other.