Christians Injured in Attack on Prayer Gathering in Chhattisgarh

Sukma, Chhattisgarh, June 1, 2026: More than 25 Christians, including a pregnant woman, were assaulted during a Sunday prayer gathering in a remote village of Chhattisgarh, raising fresh concerns about the safety and religious freedom of Christian communities in the region.

The incident occurred on May 31 in Sadrapal village under Gram Panchayat Palem in Sukma district, where nearly 70 believers had assembled for their regular worship service. The gathering was led by local prayer fellowship coordinator Hunga Mandavi.

According to victims and eyewitnesses, a group of individuals entered the prayer meeting and attacked those present. Several worshippers sustained injuries during the assault, including Mandavi and his pregnant wife, whose attack has caused particular concern among local Christians.

Members of the affected community stated that between 25 and 30 people were physically assaulted. At least five individuals suffered serious injuries. Some of the injured received treatment at the Primary Health Unit in Tongpal, while those requiring more extensive medical care were admitted to the District Hospital in Sukma.

Community members maintained that the believers were peacefully engaged in prayer when the attack took place. They alleged that the violence was motivated by hostility toward their Christian faith and worship activities. Local Christians also rejected suggestions that the incident stemmed from a land dispute, insisting that the attack was unrelated to any property conflict.

A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered, and several individuals have been named in the complaint. The affected families have appealed to authorities to conduct a fair, transparent and comprehensive investigation and to take appropriate legal action against those responsible.

The incident has heightened concerns among Christians in the area regarding the protection of fundamental constitutional rights, including freedom of conscience and the right to profess and practise one's faith. Local residents reported that the attack has left many families fearful and traumatised.

Church members and community leaders have called upon government authorities, law enforcement agencies, human rights bodies and civil society organisations to ensure the safety of victims and witnesses, provide adequate medical care and rehabilitation for the injured, and take preventive measures against future acts of violence and intimidation.

The community has also requested prayers for those injured in the attack, especially those who suffered serious wounds and the pregnant woman who was among the victims. Local Christians expressed hope that justice would be served and that their rights to worship freely and live in peace would be protected.

By Simon Digbal Tandi

Progressive Christian Alliance