Raveena Aulakh, a Toronto Star reporter has an entire half-page article on today's inside pages "New Spate of Anti Christian Violence" with a quote from JFR.
Several US newspapers have also been carrying similar articles about the attacks on Christians in India. I have faith in the Indian secular fabric, but none in its politicians and almost none with its police force. The judicial system still has some credibility but it is too slow and these days the executive treats some of its major, non-civil judgements with near impugnity. But I am merely neutral when I suggest that people undergoing political, religious and gender persecution have a strong case for refugee status in Western countries. To be eligible, first the refugee authorities must be convinced that the country is on their 'persecuting' list. So far, India is on the 'safe' list unless they have reasons to change that status. Should the unexpected happen and anti-Christian violence becomes the norm, it will not be difficult to apply for refugee status. There are several ways to do that and this is not the forum to talk about it. Once that status is granted, Canada has the best treatment of any country for refugees. You are allowed to work until your hearing determines you are eligible for permanent stay in Canada and get several needed benefits. By the time that happens if at all, there will be Church, Goan/Indian and other Canadian organizations who will provide support at the hearing and resettlement stages and the necessaries of life. At the hearing the main requirement will be for evidence that you were persecuted and you and your family were in danger. Sincere and truthful documentation will play a great part along with the resources and information that the Refugee Board itself collects. You will if course be engaging a lawyer or have one provided to you by those helping you, to better represent you at the hearing, although you can represent yourself if you feel you can do so. Do not construe the foregoing as legal or professional advice, merely as indication of what to expect. Sent from my iPhone
