By Purushottam Nayak
Rourkela, Dec 22, 2025: A Catholic bishop in Odisha has asked his people to observe a quiet Christmas in solidarity with the people of five villages in the eastern Indian state protesting a private cement firm that tries to grab their lands.
“We have been preparing for Christmas with joy and hope. But unfortunately, our brothers and sisters are out in the field day and night in this cold winter without proper food and provisions to protect their land,” lamented Bishop Kishor Kumar Kujur of Rourkela.
The residents of Khatang, Kokda, Alanda, Kesramal and Jhagarpur panchayats in Sundargarh district have in recent months organized peaceful demonstration against land acquisition by the Orissa Cement Limited (OCL), now part of Dalmia Bharat for limestone mining expansion.
They accuse the private firm of violating laws, conducting flawed public hearings and lack of adherence to tribal rights under PESA (Provisions of the Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act.
“It is time to show our solidarity with them at this crucial time which will define their destiny,” said the prelate’s December 20 letter to his people.
Bishop Kujur alleges that the firm was helped by the government
He said social media has depicted the people’s pain and struggle to protect their land for their future generation.
“Hence, at this time how can we celebrate Christmas with great pomp and show and with new clothes when our brothers and sisters and children are in such distress?” asked Bishop Kujur.
He urged all parishes, institutions and communities in the diocese to observe a low-profile Christmas celebration, without purchasing new clothes or organizing big feasts.
Father Bijay Ekka of the diocese said, “Christmas is traditionally a time of joy, generosity, and togetherness. This year, however, the spirit of the season is being expressed through empathy and restraint. By scaling down celebrations, communities are sending a clear message: the suffering and struggles of people standing in the cold to protect their land have not gone unnoticed.”
He said keeping a low profile does not diminish Christmas’ importance, redefine it. “The essence of the festival lies in standing with the vulnerable, sharing burdens, and promoting fairness. Choosing simplicity becomes a powerful symbol of unity with those whose voices are often unheard,” he added.
Sister Manju Bara of the Handmaids of Mary agreed with the bishop and said a subdued Christmas would serve “as a reminder that festivals are deeply connected to the social realities around us.”
“In the quiet lights glowing through winter nights, there is a shared hope—that justice will prevail, voices will be heard, and future celebrations can be brighter for everyone. Until then, solidarity itself becomes the strongest expression of the season’s true spirit,” she added.