Sadly, this story below is one example of many.
First published on gfa.org November 1, 2007

Dalit Kids Beaten; Mother Burned

A group of about 10 infuriated, upper-caste farmers beat up some Dalit children who were playing on the premises of a local temple in Bihar, India, on September 1. The farmers then chased the children home and argued with their mothers about the incident. As the disagreement escalated, the farmers threw a pot of scalding food onto one of the mothers.

According to news reports, the upper-caste farmers were upset because they felt the Dalits did not have the right to be near the temple where they worshipped. "They told us how dare we enter the temple, this is our temple, you have no right to offer prayers here," said one victim, Rukmini Devi.

Following the incident, police arrested one of the farmers and are continuing to search for five others. They also filed paperwork with the court system and assured local news sources that the law would take its course.

Although Bihar has made some strides to create equality among its people, many atrocities against Dalits continue. This recent event only highlights the ongoing need for Dalits to be valued and respected in their society.

Gospel for Asia missionaries serving in Bihar have a special burden to reach the Dalits in their state with Christ's love, and show them the true importance they have in the kingdom of God. The missionaries request prayer for the violence against Dalits to cease and for many to come to know Jesus through these difficult times.

Dalit children in Bihar are left without hope for an education or a future, because their high-caste neighbors do not see their value and treat them poorly.