Odisha Christians Face Renewed Attacks: Bishop Lima Urges Unity and Action

Koraput, Odisha, 14 June, 2025 : Several tribal Christian families in Odisha’s Koraput district were recently attacked and forced to flee their homes in Amsada Gram Panchayat, Bandhugaon village. A mob of over 4,000 reportedly stormed their houses, damaged property, and attempted to kill them. The victims, including children were forced to take refuge in a nearby forest before being relocated to a local pastor’s house with police assistance.

Speaking on the incident, Bishop Lima said, “The attack was pre-planned. Their homes were completely damaged, and the families are now living in fear.” He confirmed that police arrested seven individuals, after the intervention of Christian advocates and a meeting with the district collector.

A peace committee meeting is currently underway, with the hope of restoring order and rebuilding the damaged homes. Requests have been made to the authorities for compensation and support under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

Bishop Lima expressed concern over the rising number of attacks across Odisha, particularly targeting converts among tribal communities. “Right-wing groups are spreading fear among villagers, saying Christianity threatens tribal identity,” he said. “These elements are dividing communities and turning people against their own relatives.”

He also highlighted a separate incident in Malkangiri, where a Christian woman’s body was denied burial for over 21 hours. Her son, who insisted on a dignified Christian burial, was beaten in front of police. “This reveals the failure of the administration to protect basic human rights,” the bishop said.

Bishop Lima called on the government to act decisively and uphold the constitutional right to religious freedom. “The anti-conversion law is being misused. Police are arresting Christians based on oral complaints without proper investigation,” he noted. “Officers must be trained to understand the difference between worship and conversion.”

Despite the challenges, Bishop Lima expressed hope. “We Christians are taught by Jesus that persecution will come. But we must hold our faith. This is temporary—they can harm our bodies, not our spirits.”

He emphasised the growing unity among Christian denominations in Odisha. “We’ve submitted memorandums across all districts. We are ready to face future challenges together,” he said.

Ending on a firm note, he stated, “Whenever Christians are targeted, we will stand with them—legally, socially, and spiritually. We request the government to take strict action, so there is fear among those who plan such attacks. Only then will justice prevail.”

By Catholic Connect Reporter