'What benefit does BJP expect to gain by instilling fear in Christians?' Catholic Church's mouthpiece levels strong criticism

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Deepika, the mouthpiece of the Catholic Church, has levelled strong criticism against the BJP in its latest editorial, accusing the party of displaying double standards in its approach toward Christians.

The editorial claims that while the BJP projects a friendly image towards Christians in states like Goa and Kerala, it simultaneously supports or turns a blind eye to the persecution of Christians in North Indian states. It criticises the party for allegedly ignoring the growing number of attacks on Christians across the country, even as it aims to capture power in Kerala by 2026.

'The BJP, while projecting itself as being with Christians in states like Goa and Kerala, facilitates Christian persecution in North Indian states. The BJP's dual policy is utterly shameful. They facilitate Christian persecution in North India. It is reaping political gains by fanning minority hatred and religious polarisation. What benefit does the BJP expect to gain by instilling fear in Christians, who are an absolute minority in the country?' the editorial reads.

The editorial also highlights the anxiety caused among believers by the introduction of harsh anti-conversion laws. BJP MLAs frequently claim that large-scale religious conversions are taking place, but there are already existing laws to deal with forced conversions.

It criticises Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule’s recent statement that all "illegal" churches will be demolished within six months, stating that unauthorised church construction is not part of the Catholic Church’s agenda.

Quoting data from the United Christian Forum, Deepika points out that there have been 4,316 attacks against Christians in India since the BJP came to power in 2014. In 2023 alone, 834 incidents were reported, compared to 127 in 2014, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office. Numerous arrests and FIRs were filed under allegations of forced religious conversion, the editorial notes. The paper concludes by stating that the BJP cannot hope to win over Kerala while staying silent on the oppression of Christians elsewhere in the country. 'The BJP must end this double standard and bring clarity to its approach toward minority communities,' the editorial asserts.