Right-Wing Group Attacks Church Prayer Retreat in West Bengal

Krishnanagar, October 10, 2026: Members of a right-wing group disrupted an annual prayer retreat for Santhali Christians at the Divine Love Retreat Centre in Jhalalkali, Krishnanagar, on October 9, prompting Church leaders to demand a government investigation and action against those responsible.

Speaking to Catholic Connect, the regional public relations officer of the Vincentian Congregation described the incident as a preplanned attack involving people from outside the area. He firmly rejected claims of religious conversion, saying the gathering brought together members of the Santhali Christian community for prayer and spiritual renewal.

Church rejects conversion claims

The PRO dismissed claims that conversions had been taking place at the centre for the past 50 years, pointing out that the church and retreat centre were established in the area only in 2006.

According to the PRO, members of the right-wing group gathered near the church and delivered provocative speeches against Christians. They used loudspeakers to spread claims of religious conversion and resorted to stone-pelting when church members objected to the disruption, he said.

The incident prompted villagers to block the road. Police intervened to restore order, after which the group dispersed, according to the PRO.

Church demands government action

The PRO called on the authorities to identify those responsible and initiate legal proceedings. He cited Sections 351 and 324 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), relating to criminal intimidation and mischief, respectively.

He also highlighted the Vincentian Congregation’s educational and pastoral ministries in India and abroad, including its schools in West Bengal.

Church representatives urged the state government to investigate the incident, ensure the safety of Christian communities and protect their right to conduct religious gatherings without intimidation. They stressed that those responsible must be held accountable and that the rule of law must apply equally to all.

Details of any police investigation or arrests were not available at the time of publication.

By Catholic Connect Reporter