India (MNN) — Widespread press headlines in India and the United States rumors a Christian orphanage may be taken over by Rajasthan, India’s social welfare system. However, Hopegivers International is on the offensive to quash those rumors.
Executive Director Michael Glenn says the rumors started when, “The state Social Welfare Ministry over there in Kota, Rajasthan has sent some staff people out to kind of explore and everything else. That’s a little bit of a scare tactic and little intimidation by them.”
The campaign began last week after the High Court in Jaipur rejected a petition by Hopegivers to restore licenses and release bank accounts frozen by the state during a recent investigation of the mission’s work in Kota. All was done a few months ago when Hindu fanatics accused Hopegivers of creating communal disharmony by their work there.
Glenn says he’s hopeful things will be worked out soon. “We’re hearing from our attorney that this is something that is unconstitutional in a democratic republic like this. So, anything for them to do like this would be illegal. And, we’ve been filing appeals on all the other issues.”
It’s been a struggle, says Glenn, but their kids are getting fed, clothed and educated. They’re finding ways to get funding into India to help support the work despite this time of uncertainty.
Hopegivers’ founder MA Thomas and President Samuel Thomas are in hiding in India. The elder Thomas faces arrest if found, while the younger Thomas posted bail after spending several weeks in prison.
Christians are being encouraged to pray that the Nation’s Supreme Court would get involved quickly and overturn, what people are calling, these unconstitutional decisions.
Funding is needed to help fight these court battles. Glenn says, “We appreciate those that have helped us financially as well as with the ultimate power of prayer. God is working and the greater the struggle the greater the reward and I know God is just preparing this ministry to make an even greater impact for the Kingdom.”
While ministry is difficult in Kota, their work continues in other areas of India, Africa and in Haiti.
