Christians in Keonjhar’s Rangamatia Hatadihi Endure Socio-Economic Boycott; Bajrang Dal Accused

Keonjhar, Odisha, June 21, 2025: Twenty-three Christian families in the Rangamatia village of Hatadihi block, under Soso police station in Keonjhar district, Odisha, are reportedly facing a sustained socio-economic boycott for over a month. The affected families, comprising 105 individuals, allege that members of the Bajrang Dal are pressuring them to abandon their Christian faith, using threats of "dire consequences" to coerce compliance.

Speaking to local sources, community members described their lives as “miserable,” citing rising social exclusion and restricted access to basic services. They claim that the boycott includes denial of employment opportunities, essential goods, and community participation — all aimed at forcing religious reconversion.

Despite having submitted complaints to various administrative authorities, the victims express frustration over what they perceive as a lack of urgency and seriousness from the police. The apparent inaction, they say, has only intensified their vulnerability and isolation.

"This is not just about religious discrimination," said one affected resident. "Our very survival is at stake. We have been cut off from society simply for practising our faith."

The allegations have reignited concerns over religious freedom and the safety of minority communities in Odisha. Rights advocates have called for immediate intervention to uphold constitutional protections and prevent further intimidation.

As of now, district officials and police authorities have not released an official statement on the matter.

The case underscores growing anxieties about the protection of minority rights in rural India, particularly in regions where communal tensions have been reported in the past.

By B.P. Pallab Lima