Christmas celebrations across parts of India were overshadowed by reports of political tension, vandalism and protests in several states, including Assam, Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh, on Wednesday. The incidents were reported even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in a Christmas programme earlier in the day.
According to reports aired during a news bulletin, members allegedly linked to the Vishva Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal barged into a school in Assam, where Christmas decorations were reportedly set on fire. The incident triggered concern among local residents and the Christian community.
In Chhattisgarh, a Christmas-related event at a mall was allegedly disrupted, with decorations vandalised amid slogans and protests. Authorities were seen intervening to prevent the situation from escalating further.
Meanwhile, in Uttar Pradesh, protests were reported outside a church in Bareilly’s Vareli area on Christmas Eve. Demonstrators gathered near the church premises, leading to heightened security and police deployment to maintain law and order during the festivities.
The developments come amid growing concerns raised by religious leaders over targeted attacks. The broadcast referenced remarks made by a Kerala Archbishop, who had earlier flagged an increase in incidents affecting the Christian community across different parts of the country.
Police officials in the affected states said they were reviewing the incidents and taking necessary action to prevent further unrest. Security was stepped up around churches and public gathering spots as celebrations continued.
The incidents have once again sparked a political debate over religious tolerance, freedom of worship, and the need to ensure peaceful coexistence during religious festivals.
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