Christian Families Displaced from Homes in Chhattisgarh for Refusing to Renounce Faith

CHHATTISGARH, October 30, 2026: Christian families in two villages in Chhattisgarh have reportedly been driven out of their homes after refusing to abandon Christianity, with their household belongings thrown outside and roofs removed, according to a report by International Christian Concern (ICC).

The incidents were reported in Chindpal village in Kanker district and Deorpalli village in Sukma district. In a report published on October 27, ICC alleged that the families were targeted for refusing to return to their traditional religious beliefs and practices.

On October 24, a Christian family in Chindpal village, under Durgkondal administrative jurisdiction in Kanker district, was forced out of its home, and its household belongings were thrown outside, the report said.

A similar incident had occurred about 10 days earlier in Deorpalli village, under Gorgunda Panchayat in Sukma district. According to ICC, the metal sheet roof of a pastor's house was first removed, followed by the roofs of four houses belonging to two Christian families, leaving the occupants without adequate shelter.

Disputes over tribal religious practices

Human rights workers assisting the affected families with relief and legal support said the disputes arose from the Christians' refusal to participate in traditional tribal rituals.

According to ICC, customary governance structures in several tribal settlements in southern Chhattisgarh expect residents to participate in community rituals, contribute financially to collective religious activities and worship tribal deities.

Christians who abstain from such practices, including communal worship and the final rites of prominent community members, are reportedly accused of rejecting tribal solidarity and customary authority.

ICC said these disagreements had led to social boycotts, intimidation, destruction of property and displacement of Christian families.

Questions over police response

The organisation said the incidents were part of a wider pattern of intimidation and property destruction targeting Christians in Chhattisgarh, with several cases allegedly going unreported.

It also questioned the effectiveness of police intervention, alleging that authorities had largely concentrated on controlling crowds during periods of tension without ensuring lasting protection for affected families.

The report highlighted the absence of sustained legal and administrative measures to protect the property rights of displaced Christians and facilitate their safe return.

Poor and marginalised Christian families living in remote villages were particularly vulnerable, ICC said.

Constitutional rights and humanitarian concerns

The report invoked Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of conscience and the right to freely profess, practise and propagate religion, subject to constitutional limitations.

ICC said the affected Christians continued to face difficulties in securing protection from law enforcement agencies and obtaining administrative intervention to safeguard their constitutional rights.

Describing the situation as a humanitarian and civil rights concern, the organisation said the displaced families were facing homelessness and financial hardship.

Pastor Negi, who is assisting the displaced Christians, said the families had been left without homes or money and were living in precarious conditions, according to the report.

Source: International Christian Concern (ICC)