Concerns over religious freedom have been raised after more than 25 Christians were reportedly injured during a Sunday worship gathering in Chhattisgarh.
According to the Progressive Christian Alliance (PCA), a network of church leaders and social workers, the incident took place on 31 May in Sadrapal village, located in Sukma district. Around 70 Christians had gathered for a regular Sunday service when a group of local tribal residents allegedly disrupted the meeting and carried out an attack.
The service was being led by local pastor Hunga Mandavi. Witnesses said that several people present, including the pastor, were beaten during the incident.
There were also reports that Mandavi’s pregnant wife was among those assaulted, a claim that has caused particular concern among the local Christian community.
Christian representatives said between 25 and 30 worshippers were injured, with at least five suffering serious wounds. Some of the injured were treated at a primary health centre in Tongpal, while others were referred to a district hospital in Sukma.
Local church leaders have rejected suggestions that the violence was linked to a land dispute. They maintain that the incident was driven by hostility towards Christian worship and religious identity.
Pastor Simon Digbal Tandi, coordinator of the PCA, said incidents targeting Christians have become more frequent since the introduction of the state’s revised anti-conversion law. He said, “Almost every other day, we hear of such incidents in the state, and this can disturb communal harmony in local communities. Christian people are very worried.”
A First Information Report (FIR) has reportedly been filed, with several individuals named. Christian groups are calling for a fair investigation and legal action against those responsible.
Human rights advocates and church leaders have also urged authorities to ensure protection for victims, provide medical support, and prevent further incidents of violence.
The incident comes amid ongoing debate over the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, which replaced older legislation and introduced stricter rules on religious conversion. Supporters say it helps prevent coercion, while critics argue it could be misused and increase pressure on religious minorities.
Based on reporting from UCA News. Rewritten for this publication.
