Jharkhand Priest Critical After Attack by Masked Men; Tribal Christians Protest

KHUNTI, October 21, 2026: A Catholic priest and school principal remains in intensive care at a Ranchi hospital after three to four masked men allegedly attacked him with sharp-edged weapons inside his school office in Khunti district on Tuesday night. The assault triggered protests by tribal Christians and other groups demanding action against those responsible.

Fr Benedict Barla, principal-in-charge of R.C. Middle School, Khunti, and assistant parish priest at St Michael’s Cathedral, sustained severe head injuries and was left unconscious following the attack around 8:50 pm on October 20, Fr George Hemrom, bishop’s secretary of Khunti Catholic Diocese, told Catholic Connect.

According to Fr Hemrom, the assailants attacked Barla near the principal’s and staff office before allegedly stealing money from the office and fleeing. The injured priest remained unconscious at the scene throughout the night.

Other priests learnt of the incident the following morning and took him to Sadar Hospital in Khunti for initial treatment. Given the severity of his injuries, he was referred to the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Ranchi. He is currently receiving treatment in the intensive care unit of Pulse Hospital in Ranchi.

Reports by The Indian Express said CCTV footage showed three masked men arriving on a motorcycle at the school around 9 pm. The school was reportedly closed for a festival, and the person who usually stayed with Barla was away attending his mother’s funeral. This has raised the possibility that the attackers knew the priest was alone, although their motive remains unknown.

Police are examining CCTV footage and other evidence to identify the suspects and establish the circumstances of the assault. The weapon used has not been independently confirmed, and no arrests had been reported in the information available on Wednesday.

The attack prompted tribal Christians and other groups to stage protests at Bhagat Singh Chowk in Khunti on Wednesday. According to media reports, demonstrators blocked roads and demanded the immediate arrest of the attackers, with some reportedly giving the police a 24-hour ultimatum.

The identities of the assailants and the motive behind the attack remain to be established. Church officials and the local community are awaiting further information as the investigation continues.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

Image Credits: National Herald