Is there religious persecution in India?

Today a colleague and good friend of mine- A Midwestern American- asked me- is there persecution of Christians in India?

Is there?

How do you define religious persecution? Is it the same as religious violence?

Are Hindus justified in their philosophical arguments against some of the activities of christian missionaries in India?

Can the various methods the missionaries employ be considered ethical and even religious? Are they taking undue "advantage" of India's poverty? Is the help- monetary and otherwise they offer in exchange for listening to the "word of god" really what Jesus would have asked of them?And what about the regular dose of Hindu-god and -religion baiting that is always a part of the "word of god." Why does love for your god be based on hatred for others'? And why should a desire to help others less fortunate than you, based on your religious convictions, be also associated with a desire to convert to your beliefs? Why shouldn't your deeds speak louder than your words(of god)?

Are the groups opposing all kinds of missionary activities right? Have they wondered why are the most desolate of India's people attracted to the message( and money) that missionaries bring? Do they realize that Christianity, like Islam elsewhere, shows them some real hope when their own religion has written them off as untouchables and scums? Have they ever wondered what they are doing to provide these people with tangible help and hope.And in any case, are they justified in using violence to express their grievances and concerns. Shouldn't they use more democratic means and raise public opinion about what really happens in many missionary programs. In the same vein shouldn't they also acknowledge the work and effort of the genuine missionary work?


And for those sitting on the fences- shouldn't they get into the ring and involve themselves in the debate? and possibly help find a solution?