Raipur: Christians in Chhattisgarh reported another attack on churchgoers, highlighting growing concerns over rising hostility against the community. The incident took place at the Shilo Prayer Tower in Durg, where Bajrang Dal activists, led by Jyoti Sharma, assaulted a pastor with an iron rod. Witnesses said the mob accused the group of engaging in religious conversions. Police intervened and dispersed the attackers, but not before significant violence had occurred.
Bajrang Dal leaders claimed they were responding to information about conversions. They also alleged that their workers, including women, were attacked when they arrived. The police confirmed that complaints from both sides have been registered and that an investigation is underway.
The incident follows a series of violent episodes targeting Christians. The arrest of two Malayali nuns in Chhattisgarh on allegations of conversion and trafficking drew nationwide criticism and placed the BJP on the defensive. Despite this, attacks have continued in both Chhattisgarh and neighboring Odisha.
Only weeks ago, priests and nuns were assaulted in Odisha during a prayer service. The victims, Fr. Lijo Nirappal and Fr. V. Jojo, said the attackers declared that under BJP rule conversions would not be tolerated. Witnesses reported that police were present but failed to stop the violence.
These repeated assaults have raised concerns about the safety of Christians in central and eastern India. Rights groups have called for stronger enforcement of the law and protection of minority communities.
