CBCI Condemns Mob Attack on Priests and Catechist in Odisha

New Delhi, August 8, 2025 – The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has expressed deep anguish and strongly condemned the shocking mob attack on two Catholic priests and a catechist in Jaleswar, Odisha, on 6 August 2025. The CBCI described the incident as part of a disturbing pattern of violence against Christian minorities, reflecting a growing climate of intolerance in the country.

According to reports, the attack took place when Fr. Lijo, Parish Priest of St. Thomas’ Church, Jaleswar, accompanied by another priest, two nuns, and catechist Mr. Durjyodhan, was returning to the parish after celebrating a requiem Mass in a Catholic home in a nearby village. While local village women rescued the nuns, the priests and catechist were stopped, abused, manhandled, and falsely accused of religious conversion. Fr. Lijo’s mobile phone was forcibly taken and never returned, Mr. Durjyodhan was brutally beaten, and his motorcycle damaged. Many in the mob of around 70 people were outsiders.

The CBCI called such actions a blatant violation of the constitutional rights and human dignity of minorities, warning that the rising trend of mob violence poses a grave threat to the safety, security, and peaceful coexistence of all communities.

Urging the Government of Odisha to take swift and decisive action to identify and prosecute the perpetrators, the CBCI also appealed for the protection of all minority communities and the safeguarding of fundamental rights so that every citizen may live and practise their faith without fear.

The CBCI stated it will continue to monitor the situation closely and remain committed to defending the rights, dignity, and safety of all citizens, especially the Christian community.

CBCI Condemns Mob Attack on Priests and Catechist in Odisha

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