Tense Jabalpur Church Clash Raises Security Concerns
A Jabalpur church clash on Sunday morning created panic and chaos when members of a Hindu organisation allegedly disrupted a prayer meeting, raising “Jai Shri Ram” slogans and throwing chairs. The confrontation at the Madhotal church near Shiv Shakti Nagar led to police intervention and the temporary detention of some youths.
According to local reports, the incident began when Hindu organisation members claimed that a religious conversion attempt was taking place inside the church. They alleged that attendees attacked them with iron rods, hockey sticks, and stones. Church members, however, strongly denied any conversion activity, stating that the prayers were purely spiritual gatherings.
Allegations and Chaos Inside the Church
Members of the Hindu Seva Parishad said they arrived at the church around 11 am to question the unusually large gathering, which included visitors from neighboring districts. According to their account, questions about the crowd sparked tension, and arguments quickly escalated into a physical clash.
Church attendees reported that the Hindu organisation workers barged in, chanting “Jai Shri Ram” loudly, throwing chairs, and causing panic among women and children present. Jitendra Barman, a church member, emphasized that worship at the church is voluntary and focused solely on prayer. “People come here on their own will. Today, 15 to 20 young men disrupted our prayers, assaulting women and children,” he said.
Barman further questioned why peaceful prayer gatherings face interference while other religious congregations operate without disruption.
Police Take Control and Legal Action Underway
Police quickly reached the scene to prevent further escalation. Sub-Inspector Vinita Garot confirmed that two youths responsible for the disruption have been taken into custody. Complaints from both sides have been recorded, and investigations are ongoing. Legal action will follow based on the FIR filed after the probe.
“The situation has been brought under control, and we are monitoring both parties closely,” said SI Garot, adding that the law will take its course after formal complaints are registered.
Similar Incident Reported in Katanga
This is not an isolated incident. A similar clash occurred on Saturday at a church in Katanga, where members of a Hindu organisation alleged that blind children were being forcibly brought for conversion. Tensions escalated, prompting police from Gorakhpur to intervene and restore order.
Community Response and Safety Concerns
Local residents and religious leaders have expressed concern over repeated disruptions at places of worship. Many emphasize the need for peaceful coexistence and dialogue between communities to prevent violence and maintain law and order.
As investigations continue, the Jabalpur church clash highlights the growing need for vigilance around religious gatherings and the importance of ensuring that worship spaces remain safe and uninterrupted.
