Jaipur: Incidents targeting Christmas celebrations at educational institutions triggered alarm in Rajasthan and Assam, after Hindutva groups threatened students, teachers, and school authorities.
In Rajasthan’s Nagaur district, the principal of a private school reported intimidation by individuals identifying as members of the Bajrang Dal. The group entered the school during a Christmas programme attended by nearly 40 students. They shouted slogans, threatened children and staff, and assaulted the principal. Panic spread among students present at the event.
Following a complaint from the school management, police reached the premises and detained three persons for questioning. Local police officials confirmed custody and ongoing inquiry into the incident.
A similar pattern unfolded in Assam’s Nalbari district. Hindutva activists vandalised Christmas preparations at St Mary’s School in Panigaon village. Police said protesters damaged banners and posters prepared for Christmas Day and set some items on fire inside the campus. The group raised slogans and warned school authorities against holding the programme.
The agitation extended beyond the school premises. Activists moved through Nalbari town and targeted shops selling Christmas related items. Police said festival decorations were burnt outside shops near the Jain Mandir area. Several shopping centres and business establishments faced similar actions.
Both incidents followed public Christmas preparations and involved direct targeting of minority religious expression in schools and markets. Law enforcement agencies intervened after complaints, though fear persisted among students, parents, and staff.
The events raised concerns over student safety, freedom of religious celebration, and the role of authorities in preventing intimidation. Police in both states said investigations remain underway and action will follow based on findings.
