Persecuted Pastor and Wife Finally Gain Freedom from Indian Prison

An Indian Christian pastor and his wife were released on bail from prison in the country’s Uttar Pradesh state last month, returning home shortly before Christmas as they continue to face accusations of breaking anti-conversion laws.

Ashok Yadav, who is a Protestant minister, along with his wife, Phoola Devi, spent 20 months in prison but were granted bail on Dec. 5, per UCA News, a Roman Catholic media outlet covering Asia.

“They are very happy to be released and get home for Christmas,” a relative said, according to The Christian Post.

The couple asserted in court documents that they were falsely accused under the anti-conversion law in Uttar Pradesh of trying to convert guests in their house, who they say planted evidence against them, UCA News reported.