India’s political landscape is often viewed through the lens of religion, caste, and community. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), as the ruling party, is frequently accused by critics of being a political platform for Hindu majoritarianism. As an Indian Christian, I am often questioned — sometimes with genuine curiosity, often with disbelief or even hostility — about my decision to join the BJP. For many, the very idea appears contradictory. But to me, it is both a natural and necessary choice.
Today, on the BJP’s Foundation Day, I choose to share my thoughts not just as a party member, but as an Indian Christian who believes in the ideals of nation first, inclusive growth, and strong governance. This day marks not just the birth of a political party, but the rise of a movement committed to India’s progress and unity.
Faith and National Identity Are Not Mutually Exclusive
First and foremost, I am an Indian. My faith is deeply personal, but my identity as a citizen transcends it. I love my country and believe in its unity, development, and cultural richness. The BJP, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has championed a narrative of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas (Together with all, development for all, trust of all). It is a vision that includes me — not excludes me — despite what some might claim.
Being a Christian does not mean I must tie my political allegiance to parties that project themselves as “secular” while doing little to truly unite Indians across religions. True secularism does not mean appeasement of one group over another based on religion. It means treating all citizens equally, irrespective of their religion because they are citizens. In my experience, the BJP offers that space — where I am free to practice my faith, voice my opinions, and work for my country’s progress without feeling like a political token.
The Myth of BJP Being Anti-Christian
Let’s be honest — a lot of the perception about the BJP being “anti-minority” stems from the actions or statements of fringe elements, often amplified disproportionately by media and political opponents. As someone who has worked within the party ecosystem and interacted with BJP leaders across levels, I can say this with conviction: the BJP is not anti-Christian. It is anti-corruption, anti-terrorism, and anti-divisive politics — and that’s something I wholeheartedly support.
There are Christian leaders in the BJP from states like Goa, Kerala, Meghalaya, Manipur, and Nagaland. Many have contributed immensely to their communities while working within the BJP framework. The idea that Christians cannot survive or thrive in the BJP is a convenient lie peddled by those who benefit from keeping us confined to particular political loyalties.
Development Matters to All — Not Just One Community
When I look at the work the Modi government has done — from infrastructure to health care, from rural electrification to digital India — I don’t see policies benefiting only Hindus. I see initiatives that are helping poor Indians across faiths. Whether it’s access to toilets under Swachh Bharat, homes under PM Awas Yojana, or cooking gas under Ujjwala Yojana, the beneficiaries include Christians, Muslims, Dalits, and Adivasis.
When I see my fellow Christians in Goa, Kerala, Maharashtra, Bihar Tamil Nadu and North East benefiting from these schemes, I see the government walking the talk of inclusive governance. The politics of victimhood and fear-mongering doesn’t hold up against the ground reality of progress.
Time to Break the Monopoly of Identity Politics
For decades, Christians in India have largely voted for Congress or regional parties — not because those parties delivered extraordinary results, but because they claimed to be “secular.” But what have we really gained in return? The same ghettos, the same lack of opportunities, the same patronizing approach to our faith. I do not want to be seen as a vote bank. I want to be seen as a stakeholder.
By joining the BJP, I am asserting my right to be part of mainstream politics, not just as a Christian, but as an Indian. It is time we as Christians broke the political monopoly over our community and asserted our agency. Blind loyalty to any party has never helped a community grow; informed, conscious engagement does.
India Is Changing — And So Must We
The idea of India today is no longer tethered to outdated narratives. We are a confident, self-reliant nation asserting itself globally. We need political participation that reflects that spirit. As an Indian Christian, I want to be part of this national resurgence — not stand on the sidelines.
The BJP is not perfect. No political party is. But it is a party that is evolving, expanding, and increasingly welcoming voices from diverse backgrounds. If I can be part of that change — if I can influence the narrative from within rather than shouting from outside — I believe I can serve both my community and my country better.
Joining the BJP is not a betrayal of my faith — it is an affirmation of my belief in India’s future. It is a conscious choice to be part of a movement that believes in strength, self-respect, and sovereignty. I do not expect everyone to agree with me. But I do ask fellow Indian Christians to look beyond fear and propaganda, and ask a simple question — are we participating in India’s future, or are we being kept as mere spectators?
By speaking today, I want to send a clear message — that the BJP is not the party of one religion or one community. It is the party of every Indian who believes in the strength of our democracy, the richness of our diversity, and the power of development. I am here not in spite of my faith, but because my faith teaches me to stand for truth, justice, and service — values I also see reflected in the BJP’s mission.
This Foundation Day, I reaffirm my commitment to India and to a political vision where no citizen is left behind — regardless of their faith
My answer is clear. I choose participation. I choose progress. I choose BJP.
