Howrah Christian Family Alleges Repeated Attacks, Pressure to Renounce Faith

HOWRAH, West Bengal, September 22, 2026: A Christian family in Howrah district has alleged that they were subjected to repeated attacks and intimidation over three days, including pressure to renounce Christianity and embrace Hinduism, according to a complaint filed with police.

Putul Manna and her husband, Kanchan Manna, residents of Ghoraberia Dakshin Bhatora village in Amta, said they had been hosting prayer meetings at their home when the alleged incidents took place. The complaint was submitted at the Bhatora Outpost under Joypur Police Station.

According to the complaint, nearly 200 people allegedly entered the family’s home on September 16 and demanded that the couple give up Christianity and adopt Sanatan Hinduism. The family alleged that the group returned the following night, when the couple were verbally abused and assaulted in the presence of their minor children.

The complaint further alleges that on September 17, another group of about 40 people attacked the house and threw household belongings outside. Putul Manna alleged that she was dragged by her hair and beaten, while her husband was also assaulted. The family also alleged that they were pressured to sign a document stating that they had disowned their children.

The Mannas have sought legal action against those named in the complaint and requested police protection for themselves and their two children, citing fears of further attacks. They have also sought protection of their constitutional and religious rights and the right to remain peacefully in their home.

The allegations come amid wider concerns raised by Christian organisations over disruptions of prayer meetings in parts of West Bengal. The Bangiya Christiya Pariseba has separately told authorities that it had documented 26 alleged incidents involving Christians, churches and prayer gatherings over the preceding three months, though those figures are the organisation’s own account and are not an independently verified statewide tally.

The Mannas’ allegations have not been independently established. Media reports available on the case have not included a detailed police response or the outcome of any investigation. The complaint and any subsequent police action will determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged incidents.

For the family, the immediate demand is for protection and the ability to continue living in their home and practising their faith without intimidation.

Courtesy : The Observer Post