Peace Committee Meeting Held in Kandhamal, Odisha Ahead of Christmas

Phulbani, Odisha, December 11, 2025: Preparations for a peaceful and orderly celebration of Christmas in Kandhamal district began with a district-level peace committee meeting convened at the Panchayat Bhavan conference hall in Phulbani. The gathering brought together civil authorities, police officials, and representatives of various religious communities to ensure harmony during Christmas and the upcoming New Year 2026.

The meeting was chaired by Vedbhushan, Collector and District Magistrate of Kandhamal, in the presence of Superintendent of Police Harish Bisi and other senior officials from across the district. Leaders from different religious groups participated and shared their insights on maintaining peace, discipline, and cooperation during the festive period.

According to official sources, police personnel will be deployed across all churches in the district to ensure security and smooth conduct of Christmas services. Stakeholders from all block areas reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the administration in fostering a peaceful and successful celebration.

This year’s meeting carries added significance given Kandhamal’s history. The district witnessed some of India’s worst anti-Christian violence in 2007 and 2008. Following the killing of Hindu leader Lakshmanananda Saraswati in August 2008, widespread attacks were unleashed on the Christian community: over 395 churches were destroyed, 6,500 houses looted or burned, more than 600 villages attacked, and over 75,000 people displaced. More than 100 people lost their lives in the violence.

By Catholic Connect Reporter