Evangelical Fellowship of India Raises Concern Over Violence Following Burial Dispute in Chhattisgarh’s Amabeda

Amabeda, Chhattisgarh, December 19, 2025: Expressing deep concern over continuing tension and violence in Amabeda village of Kanker district, Chhattisgarh, the Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) said the unrest followed a dispute related to the burial of a deceased Christian man that escalated into serious violence.

The incident occurred on December 15 in Gram Panchayat Bade Tevda (Amabeda), when the father of Rajman Salam, the elected Sarpanch of the village, was buried according to Christian rites. Following the burial, members of the Christian tribal community, including the elected village head, were targeted in mob violence. The unrest reportedly unfolded amid objections to the burial and claims over land rights, raising concerns about law and order, religious freedom, and constitutional guarantees.

According to EFI, field reports indicate that three churches were burnt, several homes were damaged, and members of the Christian community were assaulted. Many families reportedly fled the area in fear, abandoning their homes and livelihoods. Several injured persons are receiving treatment at the Kanker Government Hospital, and some may require further medical care.

EFI stated that amid heightened tensions, the administration exhumed the body of the father of Shri Rajman Salam and moved it elsewhere during the unrest. The organisation also noted reports that some police personnel were injured. EFI said any injury to law enforcement is a matter of serious concern and underscores the urgent need for timely, impartial policing and effective de-escalation to prevent further violence.

Field reports further indicate that families, including that of Pastor Moses Das whose house was burnt, remain at the police station and are unable to return home safely. EFI also reported that gram sabhas are being convened across the region to mobilise opinion against the Christian community, warning that this risks deepening polarisation in an already fragile situation.

EFI said the situation has gone beyond a local dispute and raises serious concerns about public order, citizen safety, and the ability of vulnerable communities to live without fear.

The organisation has written to the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh urging urgent intervention to restore peace, ensure the safety and rehabilitation of displaced families, prevent further mobilisation and violence, and uphold constitutional guarantees of life, dignity, and freedom of belief.

With the Christmas season underway, EFI appealed to state authorities to ensure that Christian communities across Chhattisgarh are able to celebrate Christmas peacefully, without intimidation, disruption, or targeted hostility. It said protecting the safety and religious freedom of all citizens during this sensitive period is essential to maintaining communal harmony and public trust.

EFI stated that it continues to pray and work for peace, justice, and reconciliation, and urged all stakeholders to act with restraint, responsibility, and respect for the rule of law.

By Catholic Connect Reporter