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
Thank You, Hon’ble Prime Minister — Yet, a Call to Speak Up for the Christian community
/0 Comments/in News from NCCI, News Release, Statements /by CommunicationsThe visit of the Hon’ble Prime Minister to the Cathedral Church of the Redemption, New Delhi, on Christmas Day —particularly at a time when attacks on Christians, places of worship, and traditional religious symbols have been reported – can be perceived as a reassuring signal to the Christian community. It can suggest that the Government of the day and the political leadership of the National Democratic Alliance-led Union Government stand with the Christian community of India.
While welcoming this gesture by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) places on record its repeated earnest appeal to the Government of India and its NDA allies to unequivocally distance themselves from acts of violence and intimidation perpetrated by ill-informed miscreants. The NCCI calls upon the Government to condemn such attacks on the Christian community in the strongest possible terms and to initiate suo motu and decisive police action against those responsible. Such steps alone will ensure that the goodwill gestures extended by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on Christmas Day, and by other representatives of the ruling dispensation on various other occasions, are seen as meaningful commitments rather than symbolic appearances.
The NCCI firmly believes that clear and strong statements, coupled with prompt action from the highest authorities of the Government, will send an unambiguous message within the country. At a time when India seeks to emerge as a strong and responsible global economic power, such actions will also reassure the international community that India stands resolutely by its constitutional values and will not allow any individual or group to act with impunity, regardless of political proximity or alignment.
The NCCI expresses its sincere gratitude to all individuals, communities, leaders, and representatives from various political parties and organisations who have stood in solidarity with the Christian community during these difficult times, especially amid the recent attacks around Christmas. We reaffirm the Christian community’s unwavering commitment to work alongside all citizens in building a strong and united India, resisting any attempt from any quarter to undermine the spirit of the nation or its cherished secular character.
Jai Hind. Long live India.
Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary
National Council of Churches in India (NCCI)
Christmas 2025: Nurturing the promise of liberation
/0 Comments/in General news /by CommunicationsEvery child has a sparkle in the eye – the promise of a bright future. Those in critical and challenging circumstances and contexts, have this a lot more prominent. When identified and nurtured the promise is sustained and realised.
The Christmas story is one such narrative where a child in a challenging circumstance was acknowledged and affirmed. Thanks to a beleaguered Mary and a battered Joseph, related to each other only on working out God’s purposes for Life, a liberator was born – Hallelujah !
Promises abound, in and around. In every challenging and critical context there are a million liberators. Let us, even as, battered Individuals and groups, and beleaguered communities of faiths and ideologies, affirm and acknowledge such promises in and around us – preserving the legacy that life is born in affliction, persisting in the faith that small beginnings yield big, and persevering in the tradition that serving ‘the least’ is service to God.
Children in conflicts, war zones, displaced communities and contexts, disease and depravity, and in today’s context disenfranchisement; gender non-conforming children, children who are sexually violated – despite attempts to rob them of it, they still have that sparkle in their eye.
We will do well this Christmas to focus on committing afresh to the least of these brothers and sisters and friends of Jesus in nurturing the promise of liberation. While working on changing the world to be a better place, lets begin with and alongside many a ‘Christ-child’ in every context
Unto us a child is born . . . at the first Christmas and always – Hallelujah !
Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary, NCCI
From Bethlehem to Neighbourhoods – NCCI Christmas program in New Delhi
/0 Comments/in News from NCCI /by CommunicationsFrom Bethlehem to Neighbourhoods, the Christmas Celebration of the National Council of Churches in India was attended by a cross-section of the Christian Community in the National Capital. Members of the Parliament, Officers from the Government of India and Delhi, Leaders of NCCI Member Churches and Organisations as well as friends from different faith communities graced the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion Adv. P. Wilson MP spoke on the need of the community to continue to share Christ’s message of love to the community despite the pressing times. He offered Christmas Greetings on behalf od the Indian Christian Parliamentarians Council. Mr. Ricky Syngkon MP stressed on Christmas holding all peoples together. He also prayed for the Country and the NCCI.
Archbishop Most Rev. Dr. Anil Couto, Secretary General of the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of India, Rev. Dr. Vijayesh Lal, General Secretary of the Evangelical Fellowship of India and Rev. Dr. Ajith Kumar, General Secretary of the Church of North India Synod offered Christmas Greetings on the occasion. Ms. Nilakshi Rajkhowa, Director of Public Affairs, Spiritual Assembly of the Bahai in India offered greetings on behalf of the different faith communities represented in and through the India Peace Centre.
His Grace Dr. Geevarghese Mar Yulios, Metropolitan of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, President of the National Council of Churches in India delivered the Christmas message. Rev. Dr. Joshua Peter, Executive Secretary United Evangelical Lutheran Churches in India and Treasurer NCCI greeted all present on behalf of the NCCI. Rev. Asir Ebenezer welcomed the gathering and introduced the National Council of the Churches in India and its role and significance in today’s context.
Rt. Rev. Dr. Paul Swarup, Bishop of the CNI Diocese of Delhi, HG John Mor Iraneus, Archbishop of the Diocese of Delhi of the Believers Eastern Church, Lt. Colonel Abraham Lincoln Mudda, Chief Secretary, Northern Territory of the Salvation Army, Rev. Edwin John Wesley, Bishop Commissary of the Delhi Diocese of the Evangelical Church in India participated in the Event. Choirs from the Church of North India, Mar Thoma Syrian Church, Methodist Church in India and Ms. Grace Thaimei from Manipur presented Christmas songs in different languages that brought home the spirit of Christmas as well as the diverse contexts in which we affirm our faith and live it out.
The NCCI Christmas Programme stood as a powerful witness to ecumenical unity, inter-community harmony, and the enduring message of hope that Christmas brings to society.
Tribute to Mr. Rajakara Rao
/0 Comments/in News from NCCI /by CommunicationsWith deep sorrow and profound respect, the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) mourns the passing Mr. Rajakara Rao on 2nd December 2025. He was a devoted servant of God and a committed leader of the Convention of Baptist Churches of Northern Circars (CBCNC) and also, a General Body Member of the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) for almost 15 years.
Mr. Rajakara Rao’s life was a testimony of faith, humility, and unwavering dedication to the CBCNC mission and its unity. As a representative of CBCNC, he stood as a bridge-builder between communities, always emphasizing the call of Christ to serve with compassion, justice, and love. His contributions to NCCI will be remembered with gratitude and honor.
We give thanks to God for his fruitful life and faithful service. Though we grieve his loss, we rejoice in the assurance that he now rests in the eternal peace of Christ whom he served so faithfully.
Our heartfelt condolences and prayers are with his family, friends, and the CBCNC community. May God’s comfort and strength surround them during this time of sorrow.
Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary, NCCI
India: A Composite Entity with a Plural Identity
/0 Comments/in News from NCCI /by CommunicationsThe National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) reaffirms that India is a composite entity with a plural identity, shaped by centuries of civilizational encounters, cultural exchange, and religious diversity.
The NCCI expresses deep concern over the recent remarks reportedly made by Shri Mohan Bhagwat, suggesting that India has a single “core” culture that is exclusively Hindu and that there are no “ahindus” in the country. Such a characterization is historically inaccurate and socially divisive. It overlooks the composite fabric of Indian society — a fabric woven through the shared lives, histories, and traditions of numerous communities, belief systems, and linguistic families across the subcontinent.
India’s national identity is not derived from any one religion or culture but from the interweaving of many. The genius of India lies in its ability to integrate difference, not erase it; to affirm diversity, not homogenize it. The secular and democratic framework of the Indian Constitution enshrines this vision by guaranteeing freedom of conscience, faith, and expression to all citizens.
The NCCI therefore urges the Government of India, particularly the Ministry of Culture and allied institutions, to safeguard and promote this pluralistic ethos. Efforts that equate the idea of India with any single religious identity or a core culture undermine the constitutional values of equality and secularism that hold the nation together.
On behalf of the Protestant and Orthodox Christian communities, representing nearly 19 million citizens, the NCCI pledges its commitment to uphold the secular and inclusive character of India. On November 26th — Constitution Day — we call upon all citizens, irrespective of faith or ideology, to join in affirming that we are one in many, and many in one.
India’s strength lies in its unity through diversity — a vision that must continue to inspire and guide the conscience of the nation.
Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary.
NCCI welcomes the appointment of Rt. Rev. Sarah Mullally as Archbishop of Canterbury
/0 Comments/in News from NCCI /by CommunicationsThe National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) welcomes the appointment of The Rt Rev. Sarah Mullally as the Archbishop of Canterbury, making her the first woman in history to hold the highest office in the Church of England. On 3 October 2025, it was announced that Mullally would become the 106th archbishop of Canterbury in January 2026. She will be the first woman to hold the office.
This momentous historic milestone is a significant step forward for gender justice and equality in global Christian leadership. Bishop Mullally’s appointment has been widely recognized as a symbol of the Church’s commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and progress.
The NCCI, representing the faith expressions of over 16 million Christians in India – the 32 Protestant and Orthodox churches in India, along with 18 Regional Chirstian Councils, 18 Christian Organizations and 7 Related Agencies commends the Church of England for this bold and visionary move.
Rt. Rev. Sarah Mullally, who previously served as the Bishop of London, is widely respected for her leadership in both the healthcare and ecclesiastical spheres. Before entering ministry, she had a distinguished career as a nurse, serving as England’s Chief Nursing Officer. Her pastoral sensitivity, administrative acumen, and theological depth have made her a beloved figure in the Church and beyond.
The NCCI recognises the significance of her appointment for the Indian Christian community, where women continue to face structural barriers to leadership in many denominations. It inspires us to renew our commitment to gender equity in the life and witness of the Indian Church.”
The NCCI joins churches around the world in praying for Archbishop Mullally as she assumes this sacred office. May her ministry be marked by wisdom, courage, and the transforming love of Christ.
Persisting in service . . .
/0 Comments/in General news /by CommunicationsOn 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
/0 Comments/in General news /by CommunicationsHyderabad, 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
/0 Comments/in General news, News from NCCI /by CommunicationsShibu 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
/0 Comments/in Appeal, General news /by CommunicationsRepeated 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.