Matters India Reporter
Dungarpur, Dec 16, 2025: A Sunday Mass Dec. 13 held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bichhiwara village, Dungarpur district, was disrupted when members of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Bajrang Dal stormed the premises, accusing the parish of forced religious conversions.
The incident occurred during the 10:30 a.m. service and prompted police intervention and a formal complaint to district authorities.
Parish priest Fr. Rajesh Sarel categorically denied the allegations. “They questioned me, asking why I was converting tribal people. I told them that no conversions were taking place and that I myself am a tribal person,” he said.
According to Fr. Rajesh, the group pushed aside a catechist who tried to stop them, marched to the altar, and interrupted the liturgy. Despite his explanation, they continued to confront him with abusive language, insisting that Christian worship should not be conducted there.
The congregation did not remain silent. “The catechist, along with other members, spoke up. They said they were coming to the church of their own will to attend Mass and that no conversions were taking place,” Fr. Rajesh recounted.
Explaining why people are drawn to the parish, he added: “Many come even when they are sick. People pray, and they get healed. That is why they come here—out of their own will.”
Police later arrived, after which the RSS and Bajrang Dal members left the premises but continued their protest at the local station. A complaint has since been lodged with the Superintendent of Police.
This episode adds to a series of similar incidents reported across India this year, raising concerns about the constitutional guarantee of freedom of conscience and the right to practice and propagate religion under Article 25.