Anti-Christian Violence

Anti-Christian Violence

When Keshubhai Patel came to power as the BJP chief minister in 1998, violence against Christians escalated.[57] Between December 25, 1998 and January 03, 1999, in Dangs district, more than 20 churches were destroyed. Angry mobs assailed and robbed Christians, including in their homes. Human Rights Watch noted that the attacks in December and January were "preceded by escalating violence throughout the state in which many police and state officials were implicated."[58]

Although Muslims were the primary targets of violence in 2002, there are reports of Christians being attacked or robbed during the post-Godhra riots. According to a Human Rights Watch, Christians in Gujarat are still under "legislative, administrative, and physical assault" in 2003. Anti-Christian actions range from anti-conversion legislation in the state government, state sponsored surveys of Christians, and threats and physical assaults.[59] Organizations such as Christian Solidarity Worldwide and the All India Christian Council continue to document cases of widespread anti-Christian violence perpetrated by the Sangh.[60]