- 27 December, 2025
Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh, December 27, 2025: A rally organised by the Bajrang Dal, involving over 500 participants, passed through predominantly Christian localities, including areas surrounding a Catholic church, in Thandla town of Jhabua district on Christmas Day, despite prior intimation to the local administration.
According to the Diocese of Jhabua, the rally had been announced publicly two days in advance and its route was known to the authorities. Fr. Rockey Shah, public relations officer of the diocese, told Catholic Connect that officials, including the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) and police personnel, were aware in advance that the procession would move through a Catholic residential colony and pass the church, but no steps were taken to alter or divert the route.
Fr. Shah alleged that during the procession, slogans were raised against priests, the Church and the Christian faith. He said there was no engagement or provocation from members of the Christian community and no interaction between church representatives and the rally participants.
He further claimed that several participants in the rally were carrying weapons, including swords and what appeared to be pistols, which he said were visible in video footage of the event. “The carrying of such weapons is prohibited, yet police personnel present at the spot did not intervene,” Fr. Shah said, adding that no action has so far been taken against those involved.
The incident occurred on December 25, a day of religious significance for Christians, and has raised concerns within the community. Church representatives described it as part of a broader pattern of intimidation and rising religious intolerance, noting that similar incidents targeting Christian communities have been reported from different parts of the country in recent weeks.
Local authorities have not issued an official statement on the allegations at the time of filing this report.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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