Celebrating freedom, upholding unity : A Christian call for nation-building on India’s 79th Independence Day

Rt. Rev. Dr. Akhilesh Edgar

As we celebrate the 79th Independence Day on August 15, 2025, the Council of Evangelical Churches in India (CECI) extends warm greetings to all our brothers and sisters across our great nation.

This day reminds us of the profound sacrifices made by countless Indians who laid down their lives in the struggle against colonial oppression. We honor the memory of freedom fighters and many unsung heroes from every community, whose blood watered the seeds of our sovereignty. Their selfless devotion inspires us to cherish and safeguard the hard-won freedom we enjoy today.

The Christian community in India has played a vital role in both the freedom movement and the ongoing task of nation-building. From the early days of the Freedom Movement, Christians were actively involved, with figures like Kali Charan Banerjee, a Calcutta based lawyer, a founding member of the Indian National Congress, advocating for self-rule and social reform. Others, such as George Joseph, a Madurai based lawyer, who sheltered freedom fighters and mobilized communities for independence, and women leaders like Kedgaon, Pune based Pandita Ramabai, who empowered the marginalized through education, contributed immensely to the cause. Rajkumari Amrit Kaur was appointed as the first health miniser of India, widely remembered for healthcare reforms and women rights.

Post-independence, Christians have continued to build the nation through establishing schools, hospitals, and social welfare institutions that promote literacy, healthcare, and upliftment for the underprivileged, fostering a more equitable society. These efforts reflect our commitment to India’s progress, rooted in the biblical call to serve others.

As we reflect on our journey of freedom, let us draw wisdom from the Holy Scriptures. In Galatians 5:1, we read: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” This verse echoes the essence of our national liberation while pointing to a deeper spiritual truth. Similarly, John 8:36 declares: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed,” reminding us that true freedom transcends political boundaries—it is liberation from sin, fear, and bondage through faith in Jesus Christ.

Yet, even as we celebrate, we must confront the challenges facing our nation. The plight of Indian Christians is a growing concern, with reports of at least two attacks occurring daily, including mob violence, church burnings, and harassment fueled by rising religious nationalism and anti-conversion laws.

We urge all Indians to stand against such injustices and protect the idea of India as enshrined in our Constitution—a secular, democratic republic that upholds constitutional morality, equality, and freedom for all.

Let us commit to defending democracy, ensuring justice for the downtrodden, including dalits, tribals, and minorities who continue to face discrimination and poverty.

True freedom must extend to every citizen, embracing national integration and our cherished unity in diversity. As a mosaic of cultures, languages, and faiths, India’s strength lies in harmony, not division. We call for renewed efforts to foster this unity, inspired by the biblical vision of peace and reconciliation.

Looking ahead, we remain hopeful for India’s future—a land where justice rolls down like waters, where the oppressed find relief, and where all can experience the fullness of freedom as proud Indians. May God bless our nation and guide us toward a brighter tomorrow.