Four Catholics were arrested May 1 after confronting a Hindu nationalist mob that forcefully disrupted a Mass in the village of Kalinjara, India, where the perpetrators alleged that Mass-goers violated recent legislation barring “forced” religious conversion.
UCA News reported that 13 Hindu activists interrupted the Eucharistic celebration and began filming parishioners and accusing them of engaging in “religious conversion activity.” A “scuffle” reportedly broke out after parishioners confronted the group, with one activist threatening a parishioner with a knife.
According to Crux Now, the incident occurred on private property in a private grotto because no physical church building was in the area.
Upon the arrival of local police, four Catholics were arrested and 11 others were reportedly charged with offenses including illegal conversion, attempted murder, rioting, and breach of peace.
Bishop Devprasad John Ganawa of the Diocese of Udaipur condemned the incident, adding that Christians in India are feeling increasingly monitored.
“A peaceful celebration was underway,” Bishop Ganawa said, according to Crux Now, “attended solely by Catholic faithful. Today, being a Christian presents significant challenges, and it often feels as though we are under constant surveillance.”
Father Arvind Amliyar, who celebrated the Mass, said attempts were made to file a complaint against the activists, but police refused because a case had supposedly already been registered, the outlet reported. He added that he plans to clear his parishioners’ names amid what he described as “fake charges.”
As Zeale News previously reported, bishops in India have criticized the recently passed “Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026,” warning that the legislation restricts religious freedom and individuals’ ability to freely profess their faith.