CBCI Demands Action Over Attack on Santali Bible Convention in West Bengal

NEW DELHI, October 13, 2026: The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) has condemned the disruption of a peaceful Bible convention in West Bengal’s Nadia district and urged the state government to take strict legal action against those responsible for the violence.

The incident occurred on October 9 during the Annual Santali Mega Bible Convention Retreat at the Divine Love Retreat Centre, Jalalkhali, under the Diocese of Krishnagar. The four-day gathering, scheduled from October 8 to 11, had secured the necessary official permissions, including a request for police protection, according to a CBCI press release.

According to reports received by the bishops’ conference from the diocese, a large group assembled near St. Louis Parish Church on the evening of October 9. Videos of the incident reportedly showed claims of “forced conversion” being broadcast over loudspeakers, allegedly provoking hostility towards the Christian community.

The gathering subsequently turned violent, with members of the crowd reportedly shouting anti-Church slogans, vandalising church property and assaulting people guarding the premises. The CBCI said the incident caused panic and trauma among priests, religious personnel and retreat participants.

“Attacking citizens who are gathered peacefully in prayer inside a church or private premises is an egregious violation of their fundamental right to freedom of religion,” the CBCI said.

The bishops’ conference urged the West Bengal government to initiate immediate legal proceedings against those responsible for disrupting the convention and disturbing communal harmony. It also called on the state administration to ensure adequate protection for Christians and Church institutions so that they can practise their faith without fear.

The CCBI further appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to intervene personally to safeguard the security and well-being of minority communities.

Reaffirming the Church’s commitment to peace and national development, the bishops’ conference said, “The Church continues to remain committed to peace and nation-building.”

By Catholic Connect Reporter