July 11, 2009:

Christian school, principal attacked in Gujarat

Hindu extremists allegedly from the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (World Hindu Council or VHP) and Bajrang Dal (Youth Wing of the VHP) on July 6 attacked a Christian school and the principal in Dahod, Gujarat.

According to an EFI correspondent, Rev. Johny Desai, a few female students in St. Stephen’s High School went to the school wearing henna tattoos on their arms. The teachers asked the girls to wash off the tattoos as too much application was against the school rules and regulations.

The parents of one unidentified student took the matter to the Hindu extremists. The following day, in an apparently pre- planned move, the Hindu hardliners stormed the school with a local television channel.

The extremists questioned the school principal, Fr. C. Rayyapan, on why they have asked the girls to wash off their henna tattoos. Unable to listen to reason, they started beating father Rayyapan, verbally abusing him and striking him on his head and body.

The Hindu hardliners also desecrated the statue of ‘Grotto of our Lady” installed in the school premises.

The school remains closed on the following day as a sign of protest against the incident and a black badge was wore by Christians in the area.

The Christians lodged a police complaint but no arrests had been made at press time.

Kindly pray for Fr. C. Rayyapan and the school, for justice, peace, and religious tolerance in Gujarat.