NEW DELHI, INDIA (Worthy News)-- An Indian evangelical pastor was recovering of injuries, after he and his family were beaten by "anti-Christian" Hindu extremists near the capital New Delhi, a major mission group and relatives said.
Lal Mani Prasad of the Immanuel Believers Fellowship congregation was reportedly beaten last Sunday, October 14, at his home in the Narela area of India's administrative district of North West Delhi.
In published remarks his son Samuel Prasad, who suffered a broken hand, said at least two men entered the house and used "a steel water bucket" to hit his father's head till he was unconscious.
The beatings were encouraged by nearly a dozen other Hindus who earlier hurled stones and other materials at the pastor's family home, Christian witnesses said.
"The pastor was beaten badly by the anti-Christians while getting ready for his church's Sunday service," added mission group Hopegivers International (HI), which supports the family.
FAMILY ATTACKED
Additionally, his "wife, son and daughter were badly bruised" with rods in the 30-minute attack, confirmed HI President and Chief Executive Officer Samuel A. Thomas.
Pastor Prasad, "was taken to the [local] hospital, treated and released. [However] after a few days, he was readmitted...with internal bleeding," Thomas explained in a statement to Worthy News.
"The pastor was brought to a local hospital where he required 18 stitches on his head," HI said.
Local Christians said the attack came after the family was told this year by "extremist Hindus" that they would kill the pastor if he continued with his Christian activities.
LONG MINISTRY
HI said its pastor had been "serving the Lord...with the ministry for the last 15 years".
Thomas said he had urged supporters "to pray for the family" was they have to rebuild their lives, and home.
"The anti-Christians also destroyed his kitchen, bedroom and motorcycle." Yet, "There has been
no help from the authorities," he complained.
Pastor Prasad said in brief remarks he was summoned to testify by police, but that he had been unable to go because of his injuries.
POLICE ACTION
Police said however they had registered the so-called 'First Information Report' required to
launch criminal proceedings.
No arrests were reported Sunday, October 19.
Thomas told Worthy News that HI was raising "$5,000 to pay for the pastor's medical bills and a new motorcycle so he can continue to share the Gospel" of Jesus Christ.
Evangelism is part of the pastor's activities.
HINDU GROUPS
Hindu groups have been concerned about the spread of Christianity in this predominantly Hindu nation.
Among those converting are many 'Dalits', long viewed as the 'lowest caste' in India's ancient system of Hinduism, according to church and mission groups.
The latest violence has underscored concerns among rights activists about attacks throughout India against devoted Christians and churches.