Orissa, India Campaigns

When Hindu leader Swami Laxmananda Saraswati was assassinated on August 23, 2008 in Orissa State, India, Hindus immediately placed the blame on Christians and called for revenge. The ensuing attacks resulted in the deaths of at least 50 people and the injuries of more than 18,000. About 4,500 houses and churches were destroyed, and more than 50,000 people, many of whom are still living in refugee camps, fled for their lives.

In response to this violence, Open Doors began reaching out to both U.S. legislators and Indian authorities to increase protection of Christians and to bring justice to both the surviving victims and the attackers. In addition, Open Doors was instrumental in forming a coalition of organizations who are now working together on advocacy efforts for religious freedom in India.

Orissa campaigns:

• Open Doors asked supporters to call their U.S. Representatives’ offices to ask them to sign House Concurrent Resolution 434, the resolution to stop violence against Christians in Orissa and to protect religious freedom for Indians of all faiths. Congressman Akin sponsored this resolution.
• Open Doors asked supporters to email the Indian Ambassador to the U.S., Ronen Sen, to ask him to provide adequate protection for Christians in Orissa, and to ensure justice and compensation to the victims of the violent attacks.
  

India is #32 on the Open Doors World Watch List