Keralite Priests, Nuns Brutally Attacked by Bajrang Dal Activists
In a shocking display of violence and hatred, nearly 70 activists of Bajrang Dal, a Hindu nationalist organization, allegedly assaulted a group of Keralite Catholic priests and nuns in Odisha’s Jaleswar region on August 6. The clergy, who were returning from a requiem Mass, were subjected to physical violence, communal abuse, and theft of their mobile phones.
The incident occurred near Gangadhar village in Odisha’s Jaleswar region, where a group of Keralite Catholic priests and nuns were traveling in a vehicle after attending a requiem Mass. According to eyewitnesses, the vehicle was intercepted by a group of around 70 Bajrang Dal activists, who accused the clergy of forced religious conversions.
The attackers, who were armed with sticks and rods, began to physically assault the priests and nuns, causing serious injuries to several of them. The victims were also subjected to communal abuse and insults, with the attackers shouting slogans against Christianity and the clergy.
The Keralite priests and nuns were left in a state of shock and trauma after the brutal attack, which was carried out in broad daylight. The attackers also snatched their mobile phones and other valuables, leaving the victims with nothing but their faith.
The incident has sent shockwaves across the country, with many expressing outrage and condemnation over the brutal attack on the clergy. The Keralite community has also come together to condemn the violence and demand justice for the victims.
The attack on the Keralite priests and nuns is not an isolated incident, but part of a larger pattern of violence and intimidation against religious minorities in India. In recent years, there have been numerous incidents of violence and attacks on Christians, Muslims, and other religious minorities, often carried out by Hindu nationalist groups such as Bajrang Dal.
The Indian government has been accused of failing to take adequate measures to prevent such incidents and protect religious minorities. The lack of effective action against perpetrators of violence and intimidation has created a sense of insecurity and fear among religious minorities, who are forced to live in a state of constant vigilance.
The attack on the Keralite priests and nuns is a stark reminder of the need for the Indian government to take concrete steps to protect religious minorities and ensure their safety and security. It is also a call to action for all individuals and organizations to stand up against violence and intimidation, and to promote tolerance and understanding between different religious communities.
The incident is also a testament to the importance of interfaith dialogue and cooperation. In the face of growing divisions and tensions between different religious communities, it is more important than ever to promote dialogue and understanding between them. This can be achieved through efforts to promote education and awareness about different religions, as well as through joint initiatives and projects that bring together people from different religious communities.
The Keralite priests and nuns who were attacked by Bajrang Dal activists are a testament to the courage and resilience of religious minorities in India. Despite facing violence and intimidation, they continue to serve their communities and promote peace and harmony. Their bravery and devotion are an inspiration to all, and a reminder of the importance of standing up against violence and promoting tolerance and understanding.
