Tensions flared in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district when a group of Hindu nationalists violently attacked Christian missionaries traveling by bus through Juthana village on October 23. Despite police presence at the scene, officers failed to intervene as the mob — armed with sticks and sharp weapons — smashed the bus windows and assaulted passengers. Disturbing footage of the attack, including the screams of female victims, quickly spread across social media, leading authorities to suspend eight police officers, including the Jakhole police post in-charge, for negligence.

Officials have since filed charges against approximately ten assailants, two of whom were known repeat offenders. The attackers accused the missionaries from Kerala of converting Hindus to Christianity, though investigators have found no evidence of forced conversions. The violence underscores growing hostility toward Christians in India, where radical groups often target pastors and evangelists under the guise of defending Hinduism. Christian leaders have called for justice, warning that unchecked extremism and government inaction are fueling a worsening climate of persecution in the region.

SOURCE: ICC