Two separate incidents in West Bengal have raised concern among Christian organisations after a Protestant pastor was allegedly abducted during a Sunday prayer service and a Presbyterian house church was vandalised by mobs. The incidents were reported in West and East Medinipur districts.
Pastor allegedly taken away during prayer
According to reports cited by UCA News, around 25 people allegedly entered a Christian home in Nandapurya village, West Medinipur, while Pastor Sukhendu was leading a prayer service attended by believers from eight neighbouring villages.
Christian representatives alleged that the pastor was forcibly taken away and later released after being made to sign an undertaking that he would not conduct prayer services in the villages. They also alleged that he was pressured to make statements against Christianity. A lawyer is assisting the affected community in pursuing a police complaint.
Presbyterian prayer house vandalised
In a separate incident in Rangilabasan village, East Medinipur, a group of about 125 people allegedly entered a Presbyterian house church following a Sunday service.
A church member alleged that the attackers damaged the premises and broke a cross into four pieces. A Christian man hosting the prayer gathering was also allegedly assaulted. Some local women who attempted to intervene were reportedly taken to a police station before being released.
Growing concern over attacks
The incidents come amid reports of several disruptions of Christian prayer meetings and other religious activities across West Bengal in recent weeks. The Indian Express has reported that some Christian communities have suspended house prayers and visits following attacks, while allegations of forced conversion have repeatedly featured in confrontations.
Christian leaders have called for impartial investigations and protection for worshippers, stressing the importance of preserving religious freedom and communal harmony. The latest developments have renewed concerns over the safety of small Christian communities holding prayer meetings in private homes across the state.