South Asia

In Malaysia, the "journey of the Cross" has begun, set to end next year at the Pastoral Convention. In Negombo, young people and children put on a play centred on the Lamentations with local traditions and customs. Tens of thousands take part in a pilgrimage in Zamboanga to remember the sufferings of Jesus. In Labuan Bajo, the bishop brought the Way of the Cross among inmates.

After the latest case of negligence in Uttar Pradesh, the justices issued new guidelines to counter trial delays and bail releases that often turn into impunity. Hospitals involved in such traffic can have their licence suspended. More than 2,000 cases of kidnapping and sale of newborns are reported each year.

In the predominantly tribal district of Sukma, families were forced out of their homes and dumped in a forest. Only the intervention of the police allowed them to return, but locals first prevented access. Archbishop Thakur laments ongoing persecution, stressing that the Church continues to serve without discrimination despite unfair accusations.

Six organisations in the border town of Moreh have asked residents not to give up their land for the construction of a border fence. The project by the central government, backed by ethnic Meitei, would mark the end of the free movement regime for tribal populations. Protests break out in Nagaland as well, where the Naga fear a new division of their land.

An unidentified man is alleged to have left bait, presumably intended for stray dogs, in his rickshaw. Two children are still in critical condition. The episode rekindles attention on the vulnerability of religious minorities in Punjab, already affected by violence and accusations of blasphemy. Civil society is calling for justice and accountability, including for the health authorities.

According to the 2025 Global Happiness Index, happiness and satisfaction vary greatly among Asian countries. In India, 88 per cent say they are happy, while only 60 per cent say the same in Japan. In Southeast Asia, too, happiness and positive attitude towards the future are higher than in the more advanced economies of East Asia. Economic difficulties remain the first cause of unhappiness everywhere.

A climate of ‘universal celebration’ characterised the Bengali New Year of the year 1432 yesterday. An anniversary that unites followers of different religions in a country that has been going through serious political and social turmoil in recent months. Christian Association of Bangladesh: ‘It is an integral part of our history and our culture’.

Pope Francis has approved the promulgation of the decree on a miracle attributed to the intercession of the Kerala nun, foundress of the Teresian Carmelite Sisters. Father Lanciotti, killed in Brazil in 2001, the first martyr of the 21st century, will also be blessed. Antonio Gaudí, the architect of the Sagrada Familia, was declared venerable.

Despite criticism from several international organisations, Pakistan launched the second phase of its forced repatriation plan for Afghan refugees, which began in 2023. The lives of Afghan human rights activists and members of the former pro-Western regime are at risk. For Pakistani authorities, expulsions are a way to pressure the Taliban, accused of supporting terrorist groups operating in Pakistan.

The police denied permission for the Palm Sunday initiative that had been held for years, gathering thousands of faithful, for reasons of ‘public order’. The Catholic association protests in the metropolis where BJP nationalists have recently returned to government: ‘Other communities and political groups are allowed processions and gatherings: the authorities must guarantee respect for religious freedom and equality’.

Sri Lankan authorities have announced plans to improve early treatment for autistic children, who number at least 9,000 according to the latest data. Plans include setting up model kindergartens, creating teacher training programmes, and implementing a single preschool education policy. For Minister Paulraj, active monitoring can provide autistic children with equal opportunities “toward a healthy developmental path”.

The parents' complaint has led to an investigation: "It is a double discrimination," said Fr Devasagayaraj Zackarias. Tamil Nadu's Minister of Education stands with the student. But in India, the social stigma associated with the menstrual period and the weight of the caste system are still strong.