Violence towards Christians in India

Anti-Christian sentiment in India is prevalent.

## Conversion of Christians to Hinduism[edit]

Hindu nationalist groups like Bajrang Dal, Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) have anti-Christian sentiment. VHP has engaged in several programs to convert Christians to Hinduism. In a well-publicised case, Bajrang Dal member Dara Singh and 12 others killed Graham Staines, a Christian missionary and his two sons Philip and Timothy (aged 10 and 8 respectively). Graham Staines was working with leprosy sufferers for 34 years.

## Opposition of Valentine's Day[edit]

Shiv Sena, a political party in India, remain opposed to Valentine's Day celebrations and members of Shiv Sena carried out violent attacks on shops and restaurants organising Valentine's Day.

## Anti-Christian sentiment of government[edit]

In October 2002, the Government of Tamil Nadu under J.Jayalalitha issued an ordinance, which was aimed at preventing people from converting to Christianity. The person converting to Christianity may be sentenced to three years in jail.