A church under construction belonging to the Mizoram Synod was reportedly vandalized in India's West Bengal State, amid reports of increasing incidents of intimidation and violence targeting Christians in the region.
According to local reports, a group of individuals entered the construction site of the church in Suvas Gram Village, Sonarpur, on July 5, damaging the property and removing and destroying the cross installed at the site.
Rev. Vanlalawmpuia, a missionary serving in West Bengal, said the Mizoram Synod legally owns the land in Suvas Gram Village and that all required land-use approvals had been obtained. He said more than 100 Christians currently live in the area and alleged that the attack was carried out by individuals opposed to the construction of the church.
Police said one primary suspect has been arrested in connection with the incident. Authorities also stated that the individuals involved were not residents of Suvas Gram but had come from outside the area.
Church officials have filed a formal complaint with police. Meanwhile, the local Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) denied allegations that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was involved in the incident.
According to Matters India, several other incidents involving Christians have been reported in West Bengal in recent weeks.
In Murshidabad, the home of Christian widow Barnali Chatterjee was reportedly attacked. She alleged that she was pressured to renounce Christianity and surrender her land for the construction of a Hindu temple, while her home and belongings were also vandalized.
In Bankura, a worship service led by Pastor Rajib Das was reportedly disrupted by a group of individuals. Reports said Bibles were confiscated and worshippers were prevented from leaving the gathering for an extended period.
In a separate incident, Grace Church in Faridpur was reportedly attacked during a worship service. According to Matters India, the building sustained damage, while the pastor and several worshippers were physically assaulted.
Photo: Matters India
