Karnataka: Christian believer abducted for his faith

A Pastor from the southern state of Karnataka has been abducted by extremist groups for his Christian faith and belief, this week.

According to the report carried out by the Global Council of Indian Christians (GCIC), Gajanana Poojari (45), a Hindu convert to Christianity, was kidnapped from his residence at Neerigude, Udupi, by four masked men, who blindfolded him and carried him off to an undisclosed area.

"Poojari raised an alarm by shouting, and made a futile attempt to escape, but he was muffled by his abductors and driven away under cover of darkness. The abductors are suspected to be members of Hindutva radical groups," reported GCIC.

Gajan, who converted to Christianity several years ago, have been severely persecuted by both locals and his family. Recently, Gajan and his pastor were falsely accused and asked to appear before the Inspector of Police in Byndhoor police station. Gajan made an open statement to the police that even if he is deserted by his people or even threatened with death, still he would continue to follow Christ.

"During our interaction with the police officials, we were assured by the Inspector Chelvaraj they will do everything possible to find out the whereabouts of Gajanana Poojari and are hopeful of immediate release," said GCIC.

The advocacy group (GCIC) based in Bangalore recently claimed, "There have been 500 reported incident of Anti–Christian violence in India in the past 23 months." It expressed grave concern over the renewed activities of communal forces, the latest manifestation of which was the attack on two groups of sisters and brothers belonging to the order of the Missionaries of Charity.