THE imposition of direct rule on Kashmir by India is “worrying” for minority populations, including Christians, in the country, the charity Open Doors has said. Last week, Delhi withdrew the special status of the state of Kashmir, which it shares with Pakistan, and split it in two. The move has led to protests both in the region, which is under martial law, and in Pakistan.

Speaking last week, Dr Matthew Rees, a spokesman for Open Doors, said: “The tensions in Kashmir are very worrying for religious minorities across India, and particularly for those living in Kashmir. “This includes the local Christian population, many of whom are from a Muslim background and already experiencing severe pressure from their community. Sources in Kashmir have told Open Doors that they are concerned that this latest development will increase the already high levels of fear among the minority communities in the Kashmir. The events in the region make it very clear that no minority in India can expect any level of special protection.”

Church Times - Kashmir split ‘very worrying’ for religious minorities in India