Christmas Celebrations in India Marred by Violence

Christmas celebrations in India were overshadowed by violent incidents on December 25, 2024, as several states reported attacks on Christian communities. The violence, allegedly carried out by members of Sangh Parivar organizations, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, occurred in states such as Manipur, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Kerala. The attacks, which involved assaults on religious leaders, educational institutions, and individuals participating in Christmas events, created a sense of fear and unrest, disrupting the festive atmosphere.

In Punjab's Ludhiana, a Pentecostal pastor, identified as Pastor John, was brutally assaulted by a man named Sonu Singh, who accused the pastor of attempting to convert people to Christianity. The attack, which left the pastor with serious injuries, drew widespread condemnation from the local Christian community and human rights organizations. In Rajasthan, Christmas celebrations at schools in Jodhpur and Jaisalmer were disrupted when activists harassed teachers and students, alleging that the celebrations were attempts to force religious conversions. The authorities have been urged to take swift action against the perpetrators.

In Madhya Pradesh, another unsettling incident took place when Hindu Jagran Manch activists assaulted a Zomato delivery employee dressed as Santa Claus in Indore. The attackers also issued threats to other Zomato workers in a video that went viral, sparking outrage and calls for justice. Meanwhile, in Manipur, which has been experiencing ethnic violence for nearly 19 months, clashes erupted in Sinam Kom village, where rival groups exchanged gunfire on Christmas Day, further escalating tensions in the region.

In Kerala, three VHP activists disrupted Christmas celebrations at a government school in Palakkad, leading to protests across the state. The VHP activists allegedly entered the school premises and disrupted a Christmas event, causing alarm among the students and faculty. The incident sparked protests in the region, with many questioning the growing intolerance during a time meant for peace and goodwill.

Human rights groups have strongly condemned the attacks, emphasizing the need for religious tolerance and peace. Protests have erupted in various parts of the country, demanding action against the perpetrators and highlighting the rising concerns about religious intolerance in India.

By Fr. Suresh Mathew