RSS, Bajrang Dal Members Disrupt Sunday Mass in Rajasthan

Dungarpur, Rajasthan, 16 Dec, 2025: Disrupting a Sunday Mass, members of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Bajrang Dal entered St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bichhiwara village of Rajasthan’s Dungarpur district on Sunday, accused the parish of forced religious conversions, and confronted clergy and worshippers during an ongoing worship service. The incident occurred during the 10:30 a.m. Mass and prompted police intervention and a subsequent complaint to district authorities.

Speaking to Catholic Connect, Fr. Rajesh Sarel, parish priest of St. Joseph’s Church, gave a detailed account of the events and categorically rejected all allegations of conversion or inducement.

Recounting the incident, he said the disruption began while he was delivering his homily. “I was preaching when two or three policemen came first,” he said.

Soon after, members of the RSS and Bajrang Dal entered the church premises. One of the catechists attempted to stop them from entering the church. According to Fr. Rajesh, the group pushed the catechist aside, moved through the church, and went straight to the altar, interrupting the liturgy in progress.

As the situation escalated, the parish priest stepped down from the altar to engage with them.

“They questioned me, asking why I was converting tribal people. I told them that no conversions were taking place and that I myself am a tribal person,” he said.

Despite this explanation, the group continued to confront him, repeatedly questioning the activities of the parish and using abusive and offensive language. They also insisted that such religious activities should not be carried out there.

“I told them clearly that we would continue our religious activities and that they had no right to stop us,” he said. He noted that members of the congregation did not remain silent during the confrontation. “The catechist, along with other members of the congregation, also began to speak up. They said they were coming to the church of their own will to attend Mass and that no conversions were taking place.”

Addressing these claims, Fr. Rajesh explained why people are drawn to the church. “I told them that many people come even when they are sick. People come, they pray, and they get healed. That is why people come here—out of their own will,” he said.

After some time, the police arrived, following which the RSS and Bajrang Dal members left the church premises. “They went to the police station and continued to create a scene there,” he said.

In the aftermath of the incident, Fr. Rajesh confirmed that a complaint had been lodged with the Superintendent of Police. He added that they would have to wait and see how the situation unfolds this Sunday.

This incident is among several similar episodes reported from different parts of India this year, raising questions about the protection of the constitutional right to freedom of conscience and the free profession, practice, and propagation of religion guaranteed under Article 25 of the Indian Constitution.

By Catholic Connect Reporter