Media Release
Udupi, Dec 27: The Indian Christian Union (ICU) has strongly condemned the series of attacks on members of the Christian community reported across various parts of the country during the Christmas season, stating that such incidents amount to a serious assault on India’s constitutional and secular values.
In a media statement, the Union state president Prashant Jattanna said, "Christmas is not merely a festival of the Christian community but a global celebration symbolising peace, love, and joy, observed with goodwill by people of all faiths. However, it expressed deep anguish over incidents in states including Kerala, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Odisha, where extremist elements allegedly disrupted Christmas celebrations and carried out attacks, thereby shattering the festive spirit.
He pointed out the contradiction between the prime minister’s gesture of visiting churches and offering prayers during Christmas, and the simultaneous attacks on Christians by extremist groups across the country. While appreciating the prime minister’s outreach and concern for the Christian community, the Union stated that the actions of those claiming to be his followers have caused immense pain and insecurity among Christians.
“These recent attacks are not merely against one community, but against the constitutional values of India itself. Threatening the freedom of worship is an unconstitutional act,” the statement said.
The Union highlighted that although Christians constitute only about two per cent of India’s population, their contribution to nation-building—particularly in the fields of education, healthcare, and social service—exceeds 90 per cent. It warned that continued violence against a community that has lived in harmony with people of all religions is a matter of grave concern.
The Union further stated that the attacks during this year’s Christmas celebrations have felt like a ‘painful reward’ for the Christian community, clearly indicating that minorities still do not feel secure under the current administrative system.
Referring to the situation in the state, Prashant Jattanna said incidents targeting Christians have not diminished. It cited a recent case where an individual identified as Satyanishta Arya allegedly entered a programme with malicious intent, threatened a church priest, and made derogatory remarks against the Christian and Muslim communities. Although a case has been registered against the accused, the Union expressed scepticism over whether justice would be effectively delivered.
The statement also alleged continuous attacks by fundamentalist elements on Christian educational and other institutions within the state.
Calling for urgent action, the Indian Christian Union urged all state governments to prioritise the protection of minority communities and ensure stringent legal action against those indulging in unconstitutional activities. Failure to do so, it warned, would make it increasingly difficult for minorities to live without fear in the country.
Indian Christian Union state president Prashanth Jathanna appealed to the prime minister and governments in all states to provide adequate security and protection to the Christian community.