Suspicious Circumstances Surround Praveen Pagadala’s Death
In March, Christian apologist Praveen Pagadala was found dead near Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh. Police stated he crashed while driving drunk. However, local Christians questioned this, citing Pagadala’s history of death threats for criticizing India’s caste system. Kaveti International Law Firm noted several inconsistencies: lack of skid marks, minimal bike damage, and an intact helmet. These details led supporters to suspect foul play rather than an accident.
Protests and Legal Petitions Demand Justice
Pagadala’s funeral drew thousands to Secunderabad on March 27. In the following weeks, Christians in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana organized protests demanding a reinvestigation. Police responded by arresting a pastor accused of spreading misinformation and warning against disturbing communal harmony. In June, two Christians filed a petition in the Andhra Pradesh High Court, requesting the Central Bureau of Investigation reopen the case.
Growing Concerns Over Christian Persecution
Pagadala’s death highlights rising violence against Christians in Telugu-speaking states. Once considered tolerant, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana now see increasing attacks, influenced by Hindu nationalism’s expansion. Oliver Rayi from the Andhra Pradesh Christian Leaders Forum noted that there have been weekly incidents similar to those in northern India’s religious tensions since 2014.
Historical Tolerance Shifts Amid Rising Nationalism
Historically, Christianity found acceptance in Telugu regions due to its association with the anti-caste movement. Missionaries contributed to education and healthcare, embedding the faith in local culture. However, since the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) national rise in 2014, Andhra Pradesh, where the BJP holds power, reports increasing hostility towards Christians. United Christian Forum recorded 37 incidents in 2024, up from single digits in 2014.
Violence, Intimidation, and Online Hate Amplify Fears
In March, mobs attacked three churches in Andhra Pradesh. A December 2023 church inauguration in Kajuluru ended in violence against believers, with police filing cases against Christians rather than the attackers. Similar incidents occur in Telangana. Online, anti-Christian propaganda brands Christians as “conversion mafias,” spreading hate speech and misinformation. Activists warn these attacks are now systematic rather than isolated.
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Christians Question Suspicious Death of South Indian Preacher
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