Houses of Christians in Odisha's Koraput District Attacked, Families Flee to Forests

Koraput, Odisha, June 11, 2025: Christian families living in the Narayanpatna and Bondhugaon blocks of Odisha's Koraput district have been forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in nearby forests following a series of violent attacks by 'anti-social elements' on their residences on June 9. The assaults took place just hours after the Rastriya Christian Morcha submitted a memorandum to the President of India through the Governor of Odisha, urging immediate protection from ongoing persecution. 

The swift resurgence of violence following the protests on June 9th, where Christians across Odisha appealed for religious freedom and justice, has underscored the dire and persistent vulnerability of the community in the state.

While details are still emerging, preliminary reports from the ground confirm at least three separate incidents in Narayanpatna and Bondhugaon. Eyewitnesses say the attackers specifically targeted homes and physically assaulted individuals, triggering widespread fear and displacement. Although authorities have not yet identified the "anti-social elements" responsible for the attacks, the timing of the attacks—occurring immediately after a formal plea against persecution was made to the President of India—raises serious concerns about possible organised hostility.

Christian leaders in the region have expressed profound distress and alarm. "It's an unending misery," stated a representative of the Rastriya Christian Morcha, who wished to remain anonymous due to safety concerns. "We presented our grievances, hoping for intervention, but before 24 hours passed, our community was under attack again. Families, including women and children, are now hiding in forests, fearing for their lives. This is unacceptable."

The memorandum submitted by the Rastriya Christian Morcha highlighted a range of issues faced by Christians in Odisha, including targeted attacks under the guise of forced conversions, false legal charges, vandalism of churches, and denial of burial rights for Christian tribal communities. The recent incidents in Koraput appear to directly mirror the concerns raised in their appeal.

Human rights organisations and concerned citizens are urging the state and central government authorities to swiftly investigate these attacks, ensure the safety and return of the displaced families, and take concrete steps to halt the cycle of violence against members of the Christian community in Odisha. The plight of these families, forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in the wilderness, paints a grim picture of the challenges faced by Christians in the region.

By Bp. Dr. Pallab Lima

Image Source: AD Odia YouTube Channel