Christmas Under Threat: A Concern for North East India and Beyond
The festive season of Christmas has become a source of concern for many in India, as incidents of harassment, violence, and intimidation against Christians have been on the rise. This is not just a local issue; it has national implications, especially for the North East region and the broader Indian context.
Rising Incidents of Persecution
The Mizoram Pradesh Youth Congress Committee (MPYCC) has expressed deep concern over the increasing pattern of violence against Christians during the Christmas period. According to their data, incidents of persecution exceeded 640 cases in 2025, with a significant number reported from BJP-ruled states. This trend, the MPYCC warns, reflects a dangerous normalization of religious intolerance.
Political Alliances and Moral Responsibility
The MPYCC has criticized the insensitive and dismissive remarks made by Mizoram Home Minister K. Sapdanga regarding the suffering of Christians elsewhere in the country. They have urged the Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) and the Mizo National Front (MNF) to withdraw their support from the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance, arguing that political alliances should not come at the cost of moral responsibility.
The Role of Political Parties in Mizoram
Both the Mizoram Pradesh Youth Congress Committee (MPYCC) and the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) have called on political parties in Mizoram to reconsider and withdraw any form of support to the BJP. They argue that Christmas should never be a season of fear, and that political alliances must not come at the cost of constitutional values and human dignity.
Implications for North East India
The North East region, known for its diversity and religious harmony, is closely watching these developments. The rise in attacks against Christians in other parts of India could potentially have a ripple effect in the region, undermining the region's rich cultural and religious diversity. It is crucial for political leaders in the North East to stand against any form of religious intolerance and uphold the region's commitment to peace and harmony.
A Call for Action
As the central government is urged to act on this issue, it is important to remember that Christmas should be a season of peace, joy, and unity, not fear. The persecuted Christians and missionaries must continue their faith and service without fear. Let us hope that the coming years will see a decrease in such incidents and a strengthening of India's secular fabric.