New reports detail around 100 disruptions by Hindutva groups during Christmas festivities in BJP-ruled states, including vandalism of Santa statues and church invasions—building on earlier incidents like those in Jabalpur. No arrests were made despite videos circulating online, while PM Narendra Modi attended a Delhi church service without commenting on the violence.
As previously reported, affiliates of Sangh Parivar organizations like Bajrang Dal and VHP disrupted Christmas preparations in states including Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Assam, and Delhi, citing fears of 'forced conversions.' Videos captured mobs smashing Santa Claus statues, stripping decorations from malls, forcibly removing Santa caps, and storming churches to issue threats during services.
Updated tallies suggest approximately 100 such incidents nationwide, concentrated in BJP-governed areas. A notable case in Jabalpur involved a BJP legislator confronting a blind woman, accusing her of conversion attempts. Authorities made no arrests, and state chief ministers issued no condemnations.
On December 25, PM Modi attended a service at Delhi's Cathedral Church of the Redemption, posting on X: “Attended the Christmas morning service... The service reflected the timeless message of love, peace and compassion. May the spirit of Christmas inspire harmony and goodwill in our society.” He made no reference to the disturbances.
Columnist Tavleen Singh criticized the RSS, VHP, and Bajrang Dal for fostering hatred, questioning PM Modi's praise for the RSS amid eroding pluralism. She argued these acts threaten India's diverse fabric more than parliamentary issues, expressing regret over unfulfilled hopes for an Indian renaissance under Modi.
