Missionaries in Bengal Given 7-Day Ultimatum to Leave, Police Complaint Filed

Kolkata, August 1, 2026: Claretian missionaries at a mission centre in Nazat in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district have approached the police after a group of men allegedly accused them of religious conversions and foreign-funded activities and gave them seven days to leave the premises.

The incident occurred on July 31 at Claret Premaloy, under the Diocese of Baruipur, when about eight men allegedly entered the mission and questioned the missionaries about their presence and activities in the area.

According to the missionaries, the group accused them of converting poor tribal and Hindu families and alleged that the mission was receiving foreign funds for the purpose. The visitors also reportedly sought details about the number of Catholic families in the locality.

A missionary who witnessed the incident said one of the men identified himself as a local Hindu councillor and warned that the group would return after seven days and lock the mission from outside if the missionaries did not leave.

The visitors were not carrying weapons, according to the missionary, but allegedly photographed the mission buildings and vehicles during their visit.

The group returned the following morning, August 1, with three members reportedly visiting the mission at around 9.30 am. One of them allegedly questioned the missionaries about why they had not complied with the previous day's warning.

Following consultations with the Bishop of Baruipur and legal advisers, the Claretian Missionaries lodged a First Information Report with the local police.

Police personnel subsequently visited the mission, assured the missionaries of their safety and said the situation would be monitored, according to the missionaries.

Fr. Peter Johnson CMF, Major Superior of the Claretian Missionaries, has appealed for prayers and solidarity following the incidents. The missionaries have also convened a Parish Council meeting to assess the situation and determine their next course of action.

The Claretian Missionaries have called for prayers for the safety of the missionaries and local faithful and for peace and courage as they deal with the reported threats.

By Catholic Connect Reporter