AICU Demands Action Over Mob Attack on Santali Bible Convention in Bengal

NEW DELHI, October 14, 2026: The All India Catholic Union (AICU) has condemned a mob attack on a Santali Bible convention at St. Louis Parish Church in Jalalkhali, near Krishnanagar in West Bengal’s Nadia district, and demanded immediate action against those responsible.

The attack took place on October 9 during a four-day Mega Santali Bible Conference organised by the Diocese of Krishnanagar. According to the AICU, a mob of around 200 people entered the church premises, vandalised decorations, pelted the prayer hall with stones and assaulted worshippers. At least six people were injured, and the glass protecting a statue of Jesus Christ was broken.

More than 1,900 people had registered for the conference on its opening day. Bishop Nirmol Vincent Gomes of Krishnanagar described the assault as premeditated and the worst violence experienced by the diocese. A formal complaint has been lodged with the police.

Church representatives denied allegations of unlawful conversion, maintaining that the gathering was intended for baptised Christians. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad, however, claimed that conversions were taking place. The AICU questioned the use of such allegations to justify violence against worshippers.

AICU flags wider pattern of attacks

Citing an India Hate Lab report, the Union said 60 incidents targeting Christians were documented across 13 West Bengal districts between May 13 and September 20. It also cited attacks on prayer meetings and house churches in Paschim and Purba Medinipur.

AICU National Vice President Alexander Anthony questioned whether the state administration was adequately protecting Christians’ constitutional rights. The Union also expressed concern over reports that police had registered FIRs in only 13 of dozens of reported cases.

The AICU said alleged threats by groups opposing Christian activities, including references to the political transition in the state, had heightened insecurity among Christian communities.

Calls for independent inquiry

The Union urged the West Bengal Government and police to register complaints promptly, publish the status of cases involving attacks on Christians and introduce preventive measures in vulnerable areas.

It also called on the National Human Rights Commission, the National Commission for Minorities and the West Bengal Human Rights Commission to take suo motu cognisance and order an independent inquiry into the incidents, including possible police failures.

Invoking Articles 14, 21 and 25 of the Constitution, the AICU stressed that equality, protection of life and religious freedom apply to all citizens. It expressed solidarity with the Diocese of Krishnanagar and the Santali Christian community, affirming that worshipping in one’s own language is a constitutional right, not a provocation.

By Catholic Connect Reporter