People's Tribunal Flags ‘Systemic Failures’ Amid Anti-Christian Violence in Odisha

Odisha, May 5, 2026: A people’s tribunal facilitated by the Karwan-e-Mohabbat has raised serious concerns over alleged incidents of anti-Christian violence and discrimination in Odisha, urging the state government to safeguard constitutional rights and ensure justice for affected communities.

In an open letter addressed to the Chief Secretary, the collective reported findings from a fact-finding visit conducted between May 2 and 5 across several districts, including Nabarangpur, Jeypore, Balasore, and Baripada. Tribunal members said they interacted with nearly 300 individuals from regions such as Koraput, Malkangiri, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Angul, Sambalpur, Rayagada, Khorda, and Jajpur.

According to the letter, testimonies gathered during the visit revealed “harrowing and worrying” experiences of members of the Christian minority, particularly among Adivasi and Dalit communities. The tribunal alleged that there have been repeated violations of fundamental rights, including freedom of religion, as well as threats to life, livelihood, and residence.

The report also pointed to alleged lapses by authorities, claiming that in certain instances, law enforcement officials and local administrators either failed to intervene or were complicit in acts of persecution. It further highlighted concerns over the role of organised groups and elected representatives in exacerbating tensions.

Among the patterns documented were reported attacks on places of worship, disruption of prayer meetings, and legal action against clergy under allegations of forced conversions. Some clergy members were also reportedly detained. The tribunal additionally cited instances of social and economic boycotts, including expulsion of Christian families from villages and penalties imposed on those associating with them.

Particularly distressing were accounts of denial of burial rights, with families allegedly prevented from conducting funerals in customary grounds. In some cases, burials were delayed or forced outside village limits.

The letter also detailed allegations of physical violence, intimidation, and coercion, including reported attempts to force individuals to renounce their faith. It further claimed that in certain cases, criminal charges were filed against victims rather than perpetrators, alongside allegations of police intimidation.

Concluding that these incidents suggest a “serious breakdown” of constitutional protections for Christian minorities, the tribunal called on the Odisha government to take urgent steps to uphold the rights and dignity of all citizens, irrespective of religion, caste, or creed.

By Catholic Connect Reporter