Karnataka top in attacks on Christians in India

Karnataka top in attacks on Christians in India

BANGALORE, India — With at least 43 incidents of anti-Christian violence, Karnataka had more attacks on Christians in the first eight months of this year than any other state in India, according to advocacy organizations.

The figure compares with 35 attacks on churches, worship services and Christians during the same period last year in the state, which has become the center of violence against Christians.

On Sept. 11, former chief minister of Karnataka H.D. Kumaraswamy noted that a Sept. 10 attack on St. Francis De Sales Church at Hebbagudi, on the outskirts of Bangalore, came just days after Gov. H.R. Bhardwaj voiced concern over the security of minorities in the state.

Archbishop of Bangalore Bernard Moras said that experience leaves him little hope for future justice. “The state government has promised to make an immediate inquiry into the recent church attack in Hebbagudi, but nothing has been done so far. … Sad as it is, we feel that justice delayed is justice denied,” he said.