Violent Hindu Activists Attacked – Six Christians Detained
“We Christians in Nepal are subjected to persecution,” says BP Khanal.
BP Khanal is concerned about the growing Hindu nationalism in Nepal.
Text: Aricle 18 and Stefanus AllianceCSW and Stefanus Alliance
Six Christians in Nepal were detained by police after they were attacked by radical Hindu activists. The incident occurred on Tuesday, April 16, in the city of Chitwan, south of the capital Kathmandu. This is reported by the Christian organization CSW, which works for freedom of religion and belief.
Attacked, then detained
According to local reports, the six Christians were attacked and then detained while they were engaged in prayer and Christian activities in the home of a local Christian family.
A group of radical Hindus attacked them, falsely accused them of proselytizing, and called the police. The police then arrested the Christians, while no action was taken against the attackers.
Concern
CSW has received information that the six were brought before a judge on April 17 and were ordered to be held in custody while the case is under investigation. They have not yet been formally charged with any crime.
CSW's founder president Mervyn Thomas says:
– We are deeply concerned about the detention of the six Christians in Chitwan, especially given reports that they were attacked before being detained. The fact that no action was taken against the attackers is a serious failure of justice, which sends the signal that Christians and other religious minorities can be attacked with impunity.
– Nepal must ensure that its citizens can practice their religion or belief without fear of harassment or violence. We call for the immediate release of the six Christians and for an impartial investigation of the incident that ensures justice is served.