Once pro-Modi, Orthodox Church head now flags RSS role in attacks on Christians Baselios Marthoma Mathews III alleged that attacks on Christians and minorities continued due to silence from those in power. He said migration shaped India's history and warned that slogans excluding minorities would not work. AdvertisementMalankara Orthodox Church head Baselios Marthoma Mathews III alleges silence on attacks against Christians, questions ‘India for Hindus’ slogan. Shibimol KGUPDATED: Jan 6, 2026 10:52 ISTWritten By: Deepthi RaoThe Supreme Head of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, alleged that attacks on Christians and other minorities were continuing because the ruling party was neither controlling nor condemning them, which, he said, could only be seen as part of a larger plan. Baselios Marthoma Mathews III said, “When the ruling party is not controlling or condemning the attack on Christians and other minorities, we can only see it as part of their plan.”advertisementHis remarks come against the backdrop of targeted violence against churches and Christmas celebrations across the country in December 2025. He added that an awareness campaign was required for atrocities against Christians and minorities, alleging that Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) affiliated organisations such as the Bajrang Dal and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad were attacking Christians and minorities. Referring to recent incidents, he said that after nuns, priests were now being targeted and that celebrations outside churches had been destroyed.“It won’t take much time to enter the church,” he said, adding that while all religions stood for truth and justice, there would always be religious eccentrics, and it was the responsibility of those in power to control them. Stating that the Constitution guaranteed equality, he said all Indians were equally free, with no difference between majority and minority communities.“All religions have equal rights to believe, practice and propagate their religion.
