On the occasion of completing 78 years as citizens of a free country the Orthodox and Protestant Christian community in India, as always and despite all odds, commits itself to persist in service to the nation.
Recognising the travails and the sacrifices of the generation that lived through the struggles of the freedom movement, we salute the generations of people who continue through toil and struggle to protect the independence that was dearly fought and wrested.
That peoples of all communities, ethnicities and faith affiliations fought shoulder to shoulder in securing freedom from colonial rule is recognised and celebrated. Resisting the occupiers, almost every one celebrated the freedom born at midnight – that which they dreamt of for over a century.
Attacks from all quarters to transgress boundaries of nations abound in different forms and continue to undermine the sovereignty of the peoples of countries around the globe.
In India we have tried to deal with these in the recent past by amending finance laws and those that relate to internal security. We have tried to balance trade deficit ; we have incentivised and promoted in-country manufacturing; we have also tried to step up exports of quality goods and services. We have grown as a major player in the world arena both in economics and in global geo -political positioning.
In the race to emerge as a global player we had to contend with dissatisfaction and discontent back home. In a bid to assert ourselves we passed new stringent legislation and amended old ones to tighten ‘internal security’.
We cannot however escape the truth that this process has unfortunately led to the alienation of the less privileged and minority communities leading to mutual suspicion of communities and a growing mistrust in general. Despite these setbacks communities have held together and faced challenges with greater resolve than ever before.
On the august occasion of the anniversary of the Indian Independence we join all those well meaning citizens of this country, of all faith and ideological communities, in committing to a common future in which no one is left behind and life of every one beginning from the least of all is affirmed to flourishing.
It is our desire that everyone is counted, the rights of all affirmed, justice knows no favourites, all communities are represented proportionately and adequately, and rules are written or rewritten not on majoritarian terms but as just and fair to all.
We commit as citizens first and second to none, wilfully adhering to the Christian faith on account of a constitutional right available to all citizens irrespective of caste and creed, to ‘persist’ in service to all peoples in general and to the last, the least and the lost in particular.
We commit to voice our concern, and add constructively to all similar voices that speak up for the transgressed and the violated. We look for strengthening the role of the masses in governance, the much cherished sovereignty of the least.
We affirm that “nobody’s free unless everybody’s free” (Fannie Lou Hamer). We continue to echo for everyone, with Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it”.
God bless India
Jai Hind !
Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary NCCI
Ecumenical news
Persisting in service . . .
General newsOn the occasion of completing 78 years as citizens of a free country the Orthodox and Protestant Christian community in India, as always and despite all odds, commits itself to persist in service to the nation.
Recognising the travails and the sacrifices of the generation that lived through the struggles of the freedom movement, we salute the generations of people who continue through toil and struggle to protect the independence that was dearly fought and wrested.
That peoples of all communities, ethnicities and faith affiliations fought shoulder to shoulder in securing freedom from colonial rule is recognised and celebrated. Resisting the occupiers, almost every one celebrated the freedom born at midnight – that which they dreamt of for over a century.
Attacks from all quarters to transgress boundaries of nations abound in different forms and continue to undermine the sovereignty of the peoples of countries around the globe.
In India we have tried to deal with these in the recent past by amending finance laws and those that relate to internal security. We have tried to balance trade deficit ; we have incentivised and promoted in-country manufacturing; we have also tried to step up exports of quality goods and services. We have grown as a major player in the world arena both in economics and in global geo -political positioning.
In the race to emerge as a global player we had to contend with dissatisfaction and discontent back home. In a bid to assert ourselves we passed new stringent legislation and amended old ones to tighten ‘internal security’.
We cannot however escape the truth that this process has unfortunately led to the alienation of the less privileged and minority communities leading to mutual suspicion of communities and a growing mistrust in general. Despite these setbacks communities have held together and faced challenges with greater resolve than ever before.
On the august occasion of the anniversary of the Indian Independence we join all those well meaning citizens of this country, of all faith and ideological communities, in committing to a common future in which no one is left behind and life of every one beginning from the least of all is affirmed to flourishing.
It is our desire that everyone is counted, the rights of all affirmed, justice knows no favourites, all communities are represented proportionately and adequately, and rules are written or rewritten not on majoritarian terms but as just and fair to all.
We commit as citizens first and second to none, wilfully adhering to the Christian faith on account of a constitutional right available to all citizens irrespective of caste and creed, to ‘persist’ in service to all peoples in general and to the last, the least and the lost in particular.
We commit to voice our concern, and add constructively to all similar voices that speak up for the transgressed and the violated. We look for strengthening the role of the masses in governance, the much cherished sovereignty of the least.
We affirm that “nobody’s free unless everybody’s free” (Fannie Lou Hamer). We continue to echo for everyone, with Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it”.
God bless India
Jai Hind !
Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary NCCI
Leaders of NCCI Member Churches Affirm Commitment to Unity, Condemn Attacks on Christians
General newsHyderabad, 5 August 2025
Leaders of the Protestant and Orthodox Churches within the fellowship of the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) convened in Hyderabad for a historic conclave — the first of its kind in the 111-year history of the NCCI — to reflect on the common ecumenical pilgrimage of the Churches in India. The meeting was convened under the leadership of the NCCI.
The leaders engaged in substantive deliberations on a range of pressing issues, most notably the alarming increase in targeted attacks against Christians across the country, often carried out with impunity. While unequivocally condemning these acts of violence, the leaders expressed gratitude to all individuals and groups who stand in solidarity with, and accompany, the affected communities.
The conclave reaffirmed the urgent need to strengthen ecumenical engagement at the grassroots level — fostering stronger bonds of relationship among individuals and communities, nurturing mutual respect for diverse faiths and ideologies, and upholding the constitutional freedom to profess, practice, and propagate one’s faith. The leaders reiterated their call for the repeal of all so-called Freedom of Religion (anti-conversion) laws, noting that there is no evidence of conversions within the Christian community through force, fraud, or allurement. They emphasised that existing legal provisions are sufficient to address any such alleged incidents.
The assembly voiced deep concern over the 75-year delay in amending the 1950 Presidential Order to make it religion-neutral, thereby ensuring that all communities listed as Scheduled Castes can access their rightful entitlements without discrimination based on faith.
Recognising the moral imperative to address gender-based violence, the leaders pledged to work collaboratively to eradicate such violence, protect the dignity of all people, and ensure a life free from coercion and manipulation. They also committed to ensuring that young people in the Church and in society are given a meaningful present and empowered to build a hopeful future.
The meeting underscored the importance of acknowledging the contributions of tribal and Adivasi communities to nation-building. Churches were urged to create spaces to celebrate their achievements, commemorate tribal leaders, and ensure the inclusion of Christian tribal and Adivasi peoples in all decision-making bodies of churches and their institutions.
On matters of war and conflict, the leaders called for concerted, positive initiatives to end hostilities worldwide, respond to humanitarian crises, and promote lasting peace.
In all these areas of ecumenical public witness, the leaders affirmed the NCCI’s commitment to its relationship with the Roman Catholic Church and the Churches in the fellowship of the Evangelical Fellowship of India through the National United Christian Forum (NUCF) — jointly mandated by the NCCI, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), and the EFI — to provide a strong, authentic, coordinated voice of the Christian community in India.
This historic gathering witnessed the participation of the leadership of NCCI Member Churches, both in person and through appointed representatives.
Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary, NCCI
Press Release
Shibu Soren: an epitome of political engagement for social change
General news, News from NCCIShibu Soren, widely known as “Dishom Guru” (meaning “Guru of the land”), was a towering figure in Indian politics, particularly revered by the Adivasi communities of Jharkhand. His life’s work was dedicated to championing the rights and welfare of tribal people, making him a significant role model and leader for the community.
Shibu Soren’s activism was born from personal tragedy and a deep-seated desire to fight injustice. After his father was allegedly killed by moneylenders, he dedicated his life to battling the exploitation of tribal communities. He launched the “Dhankatni Andolan” in the 1960s, a grassroots movement where he mobilized tribals to reclaim their land from moneylenders and landlords. This movement earned him the respect and title of “Dishom Guru” from the Santhal community. Soren was a pivotal figure in the long and arduous struggle for a separate state for the tribal population of the Chotanagpur and Santhal Parganas regions. In 1973, he co-founded the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) with A.K. Roy and Binod Bihari Mahato.
The JMM became the leading political voice for the demand for statehood, and after decades of agitation, Jharkhand was finally carved out of Bihar on November 15, 2000. Soren’s leadership was instrumental in this achievement, fulfilling a long-cherished dream for the region’s tribals.
Throughout his political career, which included multiple terms as a Member of Parliament and a three-time Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Shibu Soren consistently raised his voice for the rights of tribal communities, the poor, and other marginalized sections of society. His political journey, though marked by some controversy, was largely seen as a testament to his unwavering commitment to his people. He was seen not just as a politician but as a symbol of dignity and resistance for many rural tribal families. Shibu Soren’s life is a story of turning a fight against oppression into a political struggle for self-determination. He inspired Adivasis to not only resist exploitation but also to embrace education and abandon social ills. For many, his legacy is one of hope and empowerment, demonstrating that political power can be rooted in community and used to protect the rights of the underprivileged.
Soren’s role in relation to tribal Christians and Churches is highlighted by his support for their activities and his view on religious harmony.
During his time as Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Soren was said to be welcoming of the Church’s initiatives to serve the poor in remote areas. He acknowledged the Church’s role in the development of the region, specifically in bringing education and healthcare to tribal people. The Christian community in Jharkhand reportedly prayed for him during his illness and mourned his death, highlighting his contributions to the statehood movement. A prelate also noted that Soren treated everyone equally, regardless of religion, and fought against divisive forces to protect minorities.
Mr. Pradip Bansrior
Executive Secretary, Comission on Tribal/Adivasi
Chhattisgarh Nuns Case: Government of India Intervention Sought
Appeal, General newsRepeated attempts to secure the release of the arrested nuns in Chhattisgarh have proved futile. Leaders from the Churches in India as well as those in the civil society have condemned the arrest of the two nuns in Chhattisgarh last Friday and demanded their immediate release. The leadership of the National Council of Churches in India echoes these sentiments and calls on the Government of India to hear the call of the Indian Christian Community and URGENTLY intervene in this and several such instances of actions against members of the Christian community, both in the practice of faith and the discharge of their ministerial calling.
It is common knowledge that it is the essential calling of the Christian Communities individually and jointly, also through their Churches and Christian organisations their staff and the faithful, to be involved in such humanitarian work the world over and mostly among communities that are historically discriminated and socially disadvantaged. It is unfortunate that such acts motivated by love for fellow citizens from weak and vulnerable communities, and often aimed at aiding the States initiatives including schemes such as ‘beti balchão beti padao’ to address those who are falling through the gaps, is sought to be criminalised.
Media is filled with news of violence against Christians in different parts of the country. Most of these attacks are on Christians that are simply practicing their religion, the religion of their choice, and congregating in designated places for peaceful conduct of prayers. In almost all cases the Christian Communities have been doing these with no ill-will and within the ambit of the law of the land. It is deplorable that violence is unleashed by ‘mobs’ on such peaceful assembly and practice of faith of one’s choice, oftentimes with the state-machinery standing by as helpless onlookers or silently consenting. It is even more distressing to see women and children being attacked.
More and more states, the latest being the state of Maharashtra, threaten to and eventually enact laws to ‘protect’ Freedom of Religion and Belief. These, adding to those that already exist in 11 states across the country have only alienated minority communities further, and provided ammunition for harassment of the community often in the hands of mobs aided by the absence of the state in the active discharge of it’s duties to protect the attacked.
The long-standing issue of making the 1950 Presidential order religion-neutral, the evading peace in the state of Manipur which continues to be detrimental to the Christian Community, delayed filling of vacancies in the Minorities related Commissions continue to be issues that the Christian community is affected with. Calls to rein in leaders who delivered inflammatory hate speeches against Christians also were not heeded to.
The National Council of Churches in India the official mandated body representing the Protestant and Orthodox Churches in India is deeply committed in engaging with the Government in finding a solution to these vexed issues of communities blaming each other and the minorities among them being harassed. We urge the Government of India to address and contain all forces that seek to polarise religious communities and work on synergising the strengths of organisations of religious and social communities in achieving a higher index of Gross National Happiness and thereby better economic growth and eradication of poverty, malnutrition and hunger reflected in all social parameters and their indicators.
We urge the Government of India, one more time, to engage with the official bodies of the Christian communities in India such as the National Council of Churches in India and it’s sister bodies to deal substantially and conclusively with all outstanding issues relating to christians, in order that the credibility of this nation’s plural being and it’s ethos of unity in diversity is further affirmed and celebrated. We stand committed as always to the growth of the nation and her people, and to the express resolve of the Governments for inclusive growth and building a strong future for the people of India.
God bless India. May the current session of the Parliament bring prosperity and peace to all peoples of the land. We look forward to the IMMEDIATE release of the arrested sisters, and all others in custody for the practice of their Chrsitian faith and discharge of their responsibilities in Christian mission.
Metropolitan Mar Aprem: An Ecumenical Episcopal Public Witness
News from NCCIWith deep sorrow and profound respect, the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) mourns the passing Mar Aprem Metropolitan, the esteemed head of the Chaldean Syrian Church of the East in India, who entered eternal rest on July 7, 2025, at the age of 85.
Mar Aprem Metropolitan was a visionary church leader, prolific writer, theologian, historian, and ecumenist whose life and ministry spanned over five decades, served his church and the wider Christian community with distinction, grace, and unwavering commitment.
Throughout his life, Mar Aprem Metropolitan remained deeply committed to the cause of Christian unity, justice, and peace. He was an active participant in the global ecumenical movement and contributed significantly to the life and witness of the church in India and beyond. His scholarship enriched not only the ecclesial community but also the fields of church history, interfaith relations, and social justice. His literary contributions, spanning over 70 books in English and Malayalam, reflected his deep faith, keen intellect, and unique sense of humor.
A man of deep humility, profound wisdom, and immense compassion, Mar Aprem Metropolitan leaves behind a legacy of faith, leadership, and love that will continue to inspire generations to come.
The NCCI extends its heartfelt condolences to the bishops, clergy, and faithful of the Chaldean Syrian Church of the East, as well as to his family and loved ones. We give thanks to God for his life, witness, and enduring contributions to the church and society.
“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord… they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.” (Revelation 14:13)
May his soul rest in peace and may his memory be eternal.
Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary, NCCI
Addressing Caste Violence through Legal Framework and Advocacy- A Workshop
News from NCCIDalit Christians who are not classified as SCs continue to face caste discrimination in the form of physical attack threats of conversion and social boycotts. Dalit Christins are often exempt from the PoA Act as affirmed recent in high court judgments passed from few states. In this connection a two -day workshop on “Addressing Caste Violence through Legal Framework and Advocacy” from 24 – 25th June 2025 was held at NCCI Campus Nagpur.
Rev. Dr. Asir Ebenezer, General Secretary NCCI, in inaugural greetings shared that having legal knowledge is very much important tool for Dalit Christians and also encouraged Participants to be active members of sharing a gospel of liberation for our people through legal awareness, He also urged Participants to be equipped to face caste-based census challenges.
The Key note address given by Mr. Mangesh Raj Dahiwale from the Buddhist fraternity Council Provided an Ambedkarite understanding of caste-based discrimination, underscoring that untouchability remains a stark reality in Indian society, and called for greater reverence for fellow human beings.
The NCCI – Commission on Dalit Concerns inaugurated a Mechanism to report and track the incidents of caste-based discrimination on Dalit Christians.
Rev. Dr. Asir Ebenezer and Fr. Pankaj from Believers Eastern Church, Commission Member of NCCI – CODC released the poster and circulated to the participants and NCCI member churches.
Around 28 participants from NCCI Member Churches attended the intensive workshop for two days.
Rev. C.P. Charles Sundarakumar – Program Executive, Dalit Chrsitan Support Porgam
Rev. B. Asher Noah – Executive Secretary – NCCI – Commission on Dalit Concerns
NCCI Condemns Inhuman Attack on Dalit Christians in Madhya Pradesh
AppealCONDEMNATION OF INHUMAN ATTACK ON DALIT CHRISTIANS ON THE NIGHT OF JUNE 22, 2025 IN NEPANAGAR VILLAGE, BURHANPUR DISTRICT MADHYA PRADESH- APPEAL FOR JUSTICE
We are deeply shocked, heartbroken, and outraged by the horrifying and inhumane incident that occurred on the night of June 22, 2025, in Nepa Nagar village, Burhanpur district, Madhya Pradesh. According to verified reports and viral video evidence, a mob of approximately 150 individuals forcibly entered the residence of a Christian pastor and subjected four Dalit Christians to brutal physical assault, humiliation, and public degradation. They were stripped, paraded semi-naked, verbally abused, and forced to bow before a Hindu deity under coercion — all on the false accusation of religious conversion.
This barbaric act not only violates the core values of humanity and dignity but also constitutes a gross infringement of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion, the right to equality, and the right to life and personal liberty under Articles 25, 14, and 21 respectively.
Even more disturbing are credible accounts that local police officers were either passive bystanders or complicit actors during the public parading of the victims. This failure of law enforcement, and alleged support to vigilantes, has deeply eroded the community’s faith in the rule of law and justice.
Such orchestrated violence against Christians — particularly against the marginalized Dalit community practicing Chrsitian Faith is part of a deeply concerning pattern of intolerance, intimidation, and communal targeting that must be urgently addressed.
We therefore demand:
We stand united in our condemnation of this heinous attack. No religion or belief system condones such cruelty. We urge the Minister of Home Affairs Government of India, Chairperson: National Human Rights Commission, Chairperson: National Commission for Minorities, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh and Director General of Police, Madhya Pradesh to act decisively and urgently — to uphold justice, restore dignity, and reaffirm our collective faith in the secular fabric of this nation.
Rev. Asir Ebnezer
General Secretary, NCCI
BEES FOR BIODIVERSITY: NCCI – IPC JOINT INITIATIVES
News from Constituent Members, News from NCCIThe National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) and the India Peace Centre (IPC) jointly observed World Bee Day on May 20, 2025, to enhance biodiversity within their campuses. This event served as a precursor to the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22, 2025.
The celebration aimed to raise awareness about the significance of bees and other pollinators in maintaining ecosystem, health and biodiversity. It highlighted how we have to respect, acknowledge and honour it.
Mr. Angelious Michael co-ordinated the event to enhance the interest on the topic. Rev. Dr. Asir Ebenezer shared the idea of interdependence of the biodiversity and collective interest of all in protecting the bees. Dr. Tejinder Singh Rawal journeyed with the audience exploring the world of bees. Mr. Vijay Bhagat, an urban beekeeper addressed about the science and art of beekeeping and demonstrated beekeeping offering insights to the people that attended.
As part of the event, the NCCI and IPC organized activities such as beekeeping demonstrations, workshops on pollinator conservation, and awareness campaigns about the importance of protecting bee habitats. These initiatives align with their objectives, which include promoting peace with nature and social justice.
By observing World Bee Day, the NCCI and IPC demonstrated their commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability, highlighting the interconnectedness of human well-being, biodiversity, and ecosystem health.
With a proposal to install a colony of species Apis Cerana (Eastern or Asiatic honeybees) in the NCCI campus in Nagpur. The event came to a close by pledging to protect the diversity of bees.
PAHALGAM: ANOTHER BLOT ON HUMANITY
StatementsThe National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) expresses its deepest sorrow and unequivocally condemn this heinous act of terror in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of innocent civilians and left many others injured. We believe there is no justification for targeting innocent lives, and such brutality must be met with unwavering resolve and unity.
We stand in unwavering solidarity with the victims and their families, offering our prayers and support in this time of profound grief. Our hearts mourn for those who have lost their lives while seeking rest and beauty in one of the most peaceful corners of our nation.
No faith, tradition, or ideology can ever justify the taking of innocent lives. The ideology of hatred, is a direct affront to the sacredness of life and the divine call to love our neighbors. This tragedy is yet another painful reminder of the urgent need to reject violence and work together—across faiths, cultures, and borders—for a future defined not by fear, but by peace, justice, and mutual respect.
As a nation, we must remain united in our stand against terror. Let us honor the memory of those lost by recommitting ourselves to building a world rooted in compassion, justice, and enduring peace.
We call upon all communities, religious leaders, and political authorities to rise above the situation and recommit to the sacred task of reconciliation with justice. Let this sorrow move us not to despair, but to action—for a world where such violence is no more.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” — Matthew 5:9
May Peace Prevail!
Rev. Dr. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary
Pope Francis: A Bridge of Hope Across Faiths and Borders; A Shepherd of Justice, Peace, Inclusivity and Compassion
StatementsThe National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) joins the global Christian community and all people of goodwill in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a shepherd whose legacy of compassion, inclusion, and justice has left an indelible mark on our world.
Pope Francis stood as a firm and unwavering voice against war and violence. He condemned the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza, as well as the Russian and Ukraine war. His passionate plea for peace, dignity, and justice for all peoples—Palestinians and Israelis alike—challenged the conscience of the world. He reminded us that true faith cannot be separated from the cry of the oppressed and the suffering of the innocent.
Pope Francis stood as a compassionate advocate for the protection and dignity of migrants, calling it a “duty of civilisation.” He condemned the rising tide of anti-immigration politics around the world and urged governments and societies to recognize the humanity of those seeking refuge and a better life. His commitment to the care of the displaced, the poor, and the vulnerable continues to be a challenge to all nations and peoples.
Pope Francis will be remembered not only as a visionary spiritual leader but also as a prophetic voice of love and inclusion. His pastoral embrace of the LGBTQI+ community as “children of God” invited churches everywhere to walk more faithfully in the path of Christ, who welcomed the outcast and broke down barriers of discrimination. His courageous stance encouraged many across denominations to re-examine the meaning of grace, belonging, and the radical hospitality of the Gospel.
One of Pope Francis’s most enduring contributions was his tireless pursuit of interfaith harmony. He extended hands of friendship and dialogue to leaders of many faith traditions, fostering relationships grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a common longing for peace. From his messages of unity with Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, and Muslims, he called all of humanity to see one another as brothers and sisters.
As we bid farewell to this remarkable servant of God, we offer our deepest condolences to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), to the global family of the Catholic Church, and to all who drew hope from his life and witness. We pray that his legacy will continue to inspire our shared ecumenical journey toward justice, peace, and inclusive community.
May the God of Peace receive him in eternal rest, and may his memory be a blessing and a call to action.
“Let all that you do be done in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14
Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary
National Council of Churches in India