Publicly, Hindu fundamentalists foment religious hatreds in the villages by spreading rumors that people are being forced to convert. Angry villagers then attack priests, nuns and teachers and bring pressure to bear on those who profess Christianity. Priests have been killed, nuns have been raped, and in some states before anyone can become a Christian, he or she must first register with the police. That kind of language doesn't sit well with Hindus. In all of India, Christians make up only about two percent of the population, and yet, they operate many of the schools, hospitals and social organizations.
Catholics visit small villages where they offer free education.
It is important to note that although the caste system has been officially abolished, it still exists, especially in the villages. There are also many Hindus against the caste system. A Norbertine Abbey does exist in northern India, founded by the Berne Abbey in Holland. Vanasse visits this Abbey each year to run the annual chapter meeting that is attended by people from all over India. The tension in Kerala is non-violent, so far.