Matters India Reporter
Jhabua, Dec 27, 2025: A rally organised by the Bajrang Dal, involving more than 500 participants, passed through predominantly Christian localities in Thandla town on Christmas Day, raising concerns of intimidation among the community. The procession moved past a Catholic residential colony and the local church despite prior intimation to the administration.
According to the Diocese of Jhabua, the rally had been publicly announced two days in advance and its route was known to officials. “The SDM and police personnel were aware that the procession would pass the church, but no steps were taken to alter or divert the route,” said Fr. Rockey Shah, diocesan public relations officer.
Fr. Shah alleged that slogans were raised against priests, the Church, and the Christian faith during the rally. “There was no engagement or provocation from our community. Church representatives did not interact with the rally participants,” he told.
He further claimed that several participants carried weapons. “Swords and what appeared to be pistols were visible in video footage. The carrying of such weapons is prohibited, yet police present at the spot did not intervene. No action has been taken so far,” Fr. Shah said.
The incident, occurring on December 25, a day of religious significance for Christians, has heightened concerns. Church leaders described it as part of a broader pattern of intimidation and rising religious intolerance. “Similar incidents targeting Christian communities have been reported from different parts of the country in recent weeks,” diocesan representatives noted.
This story was originally published in mattersindia.com. Read the full story here.