India: Modi Government Imposes Strict Restrictions on Christian Worship

New Delhi: Religious freedom in India has come under severe strain amid allegations of continued violations of minority rights and state pressure during the Modi government’s tenure, with the Christian community also facing increased scrutiny and restrictions.

According to a report by the British broadcaster BBC, the implementation of controversial laws described as targeting minorities has placed Christian worship under strict scrutiny. The report states that members of the Christian community are being required to provide identification numbers and personal details for verification when attending places of worship. Amid growing concerns over extremism, minorities, particularly Christians, reportedly feel increasingly unsafe even at their places of worship.

Meanwhile, taking notice of increasing attacks against minorities and alleged discriminatory treatment, the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has called for stronger action against India. The commission has recommended that India be formally designated a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) over what it describes as persistent violations of religious freedom.