Nadia, West Bengal, October 12 (Daily Kiran) : The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has strongly condemned an alleged attack during a peaceful Bible conference held in Nadia district, West Bengal. The organization is urging the state government to take immediate and strict legal action against those responsible and ensure the safety of minority communities.
According to a statement from CBCI, the annual Santali Mega Bible Convention Retreat took place at the Divine Love Retreat Center in Jalalkhali from October 8 to 11, 2026, under the jurisdiction of the Krishnanagar Diocese. The organization claims that this four-day event was a completely peaceful religious gathering, with all necessary administrative permissions obtained in advance. A formal request for police security was also made.
The statement reveals that on the evening of October 9, a large crowd gathered near St. Louis Parish Church. Reports indicate that messages were broadcast via loudspeakers accusing the attendees of “forced conversions,” leading to a tense atmosphere.
CBCI alleges that the crowd then chanted anti-church slogans, vandalized church property, and assaulted individuals guarding the premises. This incident has instilled fear and insecurity among the clergy, religious personnel, and attendees of the retreat.
The CBCI emphasized that attacking individuals peacefully gathered for prayer in a church or private space is a serious violation of the fundamental right to religious freedom.
The organization has called on the West Bengal government to take immediate and strict action against elements attempting to disrupt peace and incite communal tension. Additionally, it demands that the Christian community and its institutions be allowed to practice their religious rights without fear.
CBCI has also appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for personal intervention in the matter to ensure the safety and welfare of all minority communities.
In conclusion, the organization reiterated that the church has always been committed to peace, social harmony, and nation-building.
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