Published May 28, 2025 | 8:08 PM ⚊ Updated May 28, 2025 | 8:08 PM
Malayali pastor and family allegedly assaulted during prayer service in Chhattisgarh
Synopsis: A Malayali pastor and his family were allegedly assaulted by Sangh Parivar activists during a Sunday prayer service in Kawardha, Chhattisgarh, on 25 May. The mob, reportedly linked to the BJP and VHP, accused the pastor of religious conversions and attacked in the presence of police. Pastor Jose Thomas, his wife, and children were among those injured. Congregants were also threatened
A Malayali pastor and his family were allegedly assaulted by Sangh Parivar activists during a prayer service at a church in Kawardha, Chhattisgarh, on Sunday, 25 May.
The attack reportedly occurred in the presence of police officers.
Pastor Jose Thomas, his wife Liji Thomas, and their two children were among those injured in the incident. Eyewitnesses claim that members affiliated with the BJP and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) stormed the church mid-service, accusing the pastor of carrying out religious conversions.
Congregants were allegedly threatened and intimidated as the mob disrupted the service.
Despite the pastor filing a formal complaint, local police have not registered a case against the attackers. There are also allegations that the pastor has been falsely implicated in a fabricated case to justify the assault.
Sources close to the pastor suggest that the attack may be part of a broader campaign targeting a school run under his leadership.
Rights groups have condemned the incident, raising concerns over the growing frequency of violence against religious minorities in the region and the apparent inaction of law enforcement.
(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Sreelakshmi Soman)
