Christian Delegation Seeks Protection for Churches, Worship Services in West Bengal

Asansol, August 6, 2026: A Christian delegation from the Diocese of Asansol has urged the West Bengal government to take steps to protect places of worship and ensure that Christians can practise their faith without disruption, following reports of incidents affecting churches and Christian worship services in several parts of the state.

The delegation met West Bengal Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister Agnimitra Paul on August 4, primarily to congratulate her on her appointment to the state Cabinet and to raise concerns over incidents reported in different districts.

The delegation comprised priests of the Diocese of Asansol, a pastor and a lay representative. Fr. I.P. Sarto, who spoke on behalf of the delegation, congratulated Paul on her electoral victory and appointment to the Cabinet. He said the Christian representatives had sought an opportunity to meet her after she assumed office but had been unable to do so because of her official engagements.

During the meeting, Fr. Sarto highlighted the contribution of Christian institutions and communities to the development of the country through education, healthcare, environmental protection, child welfare, vocational training, relief and rehabilitation, rural development, agriculture and programmes for economically and socially disadvantaged communities.

He reaffirmed the Christian community’s willingness to work with the government for the welfare and holistic development of society.

On behalf of priests, religious congregations and lay faithful of the Catholic Church and other Christian denominations in the Diocese of Asansol, Fr. Sarto conveyed their good wishes to the Minister and expressed appreciation for her public service.

The delegation then drew the Minister’s attention to reports of disruptions to Christian worship services and incidents affecting churches in different parts of West Bengal. The representatives urged the government to ensure adequate security for places of worship and protect communal harmony and the constitutional right of citizens to practise their faith peacefully.

The delegation submitted details of reported incidents from Kumarpur in Asansol, Raniganj in Paschim Bardhaman district, Ahmedpur in Birbhum district, Bamanpukur in South 24 Parganas and Nazat in North 24 Parganas.

Paul assured the delegation of her support and asked the representatives to document the reported incidents and submit the details to her office. During the meeting, she also contacted police officials and requested them to examine the cases brought to her attention.

The delegation submitted a memorandum expressing appreciation for the Minister’s appointment while seeking measures to strengthen the safety and security of Christians in Asansol and other parts of West Bengal.

Paul also shared her contact details with the representatives to facilitate communication in case of emergencies.

The Christian representatives subsequently expressed their intention to organise a larger meeting involving priests, religious and lay representatives of the Diocese of Asansol to discuss issues concerning the community in greater detail.

The Minister assured them that she would make time for such a meeting and communicate a suitable date.

The meeting comes amid continuing concerns among Christian communities in parts of West Bengal over incidents affecting worship and places of worship. The delegation’s appeal placed emphasis on dialogue with the government, prompt police intervention and protection of the constitutional freedoms that enable citizens of all faiths to worship peacefully.

By Catholic Connect Reporter