Supreme Court Hears Archbishop Peter Machado's Plea on Violence Against Christians, Adjourns Matter to August

New Delhi, July 18, 2026: The Supreme Court has taken up a petition filed by Archbishop Peter Machado of Bengaluru and others seeking stronger measures to prevent violence against Christians and safeguard their constitutional right to freely profess, practise and propagate their faith.

The matter, Most Rev. Peter Machado & Ors. vs. Union of India & Ors., commonly known as the "Violence Petition," was heard on July 15 by a Bench comprising Justice P. S. Narasimha and Justice Alok Aradhe.

The petition comes before the Court against a backdrop of recurring intimidation and violence targeting Christian prayer meetings, churches and worship gatherings across multiple states. It alleges a recurring pattern of attacks on Christian prayer meetings, churches and worship services across the country, particularly during major liturgical seasons and festivals, including Christmas, Lent, Good Friday and Easter, when believers gather in larger numbers. It contends that many of these incidents are triggered under the pretext of preventing alleged religious conversions, leading to disruptions of peaceful religious gatherings.

According to the petition, more than 800 incidents of violence against Christians were documented in 2025, while 285 incidents were reported during the first six months of 2026, indicating that the problem remains persistent.

The petition also draws attention to the displacement of Christian families in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district following violence linked to allegations of religious conversion in 2022 and 2023. It states that dozens of Christian families were forced to flee their homes and that some victims themselves faced criminal charges instead of receiving protection.

With the support of ADF India allied lawyers, 38 Christians were acquitted in February and April 2026 after courts found no basis for the charges. The petition argues that the years of displacement, uncertainty and prolonged legal proceedings highlight the human cost borne by the affected families.

The petition contends that these targeted attacks violate the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution and undermine the values of secularism, fraternity and the rule of law.

The petitioners have sought directions for preventive policing through practical and enforceable court directions, strict accountability for vigilante violence, fair application of criminal law so that victims are not criminalised, and enhanced protection for Christian communities, particularly during periods of increased vulnerability around major religious festivals.

Senior Advocate Colin Gonsalves, along with ADF India allied lawyers, appeared for the petitioners. Mr. Gonsalves submitted written argument notes, which were taken on record. The Bench observed that it required additional time to examine the matter and adjourned the case.

The next hearing has been scheduled for August 21, 2026, subject to the matter being listed on that day.

News Credits - ADF