The attack on Pastor Bipin Bihari Naik in Parjang village, Dhenkanal, Odisha, is a stark reminder that religious persecution is not confined to the countries that make international headlines. India — the world's largest democracy — is also home to some of the most systematic and violent attacks on Christians in the world.

A nationalist mob descended on Pastor Naik, placing a garland of footwear around his neck — a deliberate act of humiliation — and forcing him to walk on thorns. They tried to make him chant Hindu slogans and drink water mixed with cow dung. The pastor suffered an injury that has affected his hearing in one ear. When police finally arrived, they initially threatened to file a case against the pastor rather than his attackers.

Pastor Naik and his family have since been forced to move to an undisclosed location.

Release International, which supports persecuted Christians in over 25 countries, is calling for prayer for Pastor Naik and for the many other Christians in Odisha and across India who face similar threats. The organisation also urges the UK Government to raise concerns about religious freedom with Indian authorities.

For UK Christians, this story is a call to intercession — and to solidarity with brothers and sisters who pay a very real price for their faith.

Pray and give at releaseinternational.org.