EFI Calls for Dialogue, Restraint and Accountability

On the events at Jantar Mantar on 20 July 2026

21 July 2026

The Evangelical Fellowship of India is deeply distressed by the violence in Delhi on 20 July and by the injuries suffered by protesters and police personnel.

Young people had been protesting for weeks over serious failures in the examination system. The merits of particular demands may be debated, but these young citizens deserved to be heard before matters reached the barricades. In a democracy, dialogue should come before confrontation.

We condemn violence by anyone. At the same time, the State carries a greater responsibility because it possesses greater power. The use of lathis and tear gas, the scale of the injuries, and the conflicting accounts of what happened require an independent and transparent inquiry.

EFI calls upon the Government to continue direct dialogue, ensure proper care for all who were injured, and address the concerns that brought these young people to Delhi. We urge protest leaders and participants to remain committed to peaceful means and call upon the authorities to exercise the highest degree of restraint.

The fairness of public examinations, the right of citizens to be heard, and the responsible exercise of State power concern the whole nation. As the national alliance of evangelical Christians in India, EFI cannot remain indifferent when legitimate grievances do not receive timely attention and are allowed to reach the point of confrontation.

EFI prays for the full recovery of all who were injured, for wisdom and humility among those in authority, and for a just resolution that restores the confidence of India’s young people in the institutions of our democracy.

Issued by:

Rev. Vijayesh Lal
General Secretary
Evangelical Fellowship of India