Mob Threatens Salesian Sisters Over Cemetery Construction in West Bengal, Catholic Bodies Seek Action

Barasat, West Bengal, July 14, 2026: A group of around 60 people entered the premises of the Auxilium Salesian Sisters in Barasat on July 12 and threatened the nuns with violence unless they immediately demolished a memorial chapel and cemetery currently under construction, according to the FMA Salesian Sisters and the All India Catholic Union (AICU).

The FMA Sisters said the cemetery, intended for members of their congregation, had received all necessary government approvals before construction began under the previous state administration. They said the project has faced objections following the change in government and has since become the focus of protests.

In a statement issued after the incident, the AICU condemned what it described as a mob attack on the convent, alleging that the Sisters were subjected to intimidation and abusive language. The organisation said members of the group told the nuns, "Your government is no more, now it is our government," which it said reflected an attempt to override legal processes through intimidation.

The AICU further claimed that the incident was part of what it described as a broader pattern of harassment targeting Christian institutions in different parts of West Bengal. It said the incident raised concerns about the constitutional rights of minority communities to practise their faith and manage their institutions and properties.

Calling for immediate intervention, the Union urged the West Bengal government to provide security to the Salesian Sisters and their institutions, protect the legally approved cemetery and memorial chapel, and initiate legal action against those responsible for the alleged threats. It also sought directions to local authorities to prevent similar incidents.

"The right to worship and the right to maintain places of worship are fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. No individual or organisation has the authority to threaten religious sisters or compel the demolition of structures built with due legal permissions," the AICU said.

The organisation also appealed to the state government to act promptly, warning that failure to respond decisively could embolden further attacks on minority communities. It said it would continue to monitor the situation and pursue legal remedies, if necessary, to ensure the protection of the Sisters and their institutions.

There was no immediate response from the West Bengal government or local police regarding the allegations at the time of publication.

By Catholic Connect Reporter