Christians Face Expulsion, Harassment in Chhattisgarh Villages

Chhattisgarh, October 10, 2025: Around 400–500 residents from nearly 35 villages in Kanker district gathered on 5 October for a community meeting opposing religious conversion and introducing measures to restrict Christian practices. Chaired by the village committee president, the gathering emphasised the preservation of tribal heritage and traditional faith practices. Several resolutions targeting Christians were adopted during the event.

Key Decisions on Religious Conversion

• The community unanimously declared that religious conversions would not be tolerated in any village.
• Committee President Hidma equated religious conversion to a criminal act and announced plans to submit a memorandum to the administration demanding strict action against those involved in conversion activities.
• Participants called for the social boycott of individuals adopting a different religion.
• The meeting resolved to monitor the activities of outsiders entering the villages.
• Special programmes were proposed to preserve and promote tribal culture and traditional customs.

Christian Believer Publicly Expelled

During the meeting, Deepak Yadav, a Christian from Banspatar village, was publicly questioned about his caste, community, religion, and conversion to Christianity. He was pressured to undertake ghar wapsi (reconversion to his previous faith). Upon refusing to renounce his Christian faith, he was forcibly expelled from the gathering in front of the assembled crowd.

Anti- Christian Resolutions

The gathering also adopted resolutions that raised serious concerns for religious freedom:

• No land would be sanctioned or approved for Christian burial grounds; burials would be actively opposed.
• Discussions were held on damaging or demolishing church buildings.
• Plans were proposed to deprive Christian families of forest land and property rights.
• Villages would install prohibitory boards at their entrances to restrict religious activities and prevent missionary work.
• Village councils were instructed to investigate the causes of religious conversion and take immediate action.
• House churches and home prayer meetings conducted by Christians would be ordered to shut down.

The organisers delivered a unified message urging villagers to protect their culture, identity, and religion by standing against conversion. Community leaders called for collective unity and vigilance to “preserve social harmony” as defined by their own traditions.

Appeal for Prayer and Support

The Progressive Christian Alliance has appealed for prayers and support for the safety and protection of believers in the affected region. The incident highlights growing hostility and social pressure against Christians, underscoring the urgent need for awareness, peacebuilding, and advocacy for religious freedom.

By Pastor Simon

Progressive Christian Alliance

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