By Purushottam Nayak
JALALKHALI, October 10, 2026: A Catholic prayer gathering at the Divine Love Retreat Centre in Jalalkhali, West Bengal’s Nadia district, was reportedly disrupted amid allegations of assault, verbal abuse and accusations of forced religious conversion.
According to local Catholic representatives, a crowd gathered near the centre, where a Santali Bible Convention had been underway since October 1. Participants alleged that some people were assaulted during the confrontation. Police arrived at the scene and restored order, according to local reports.
The eleven-day convention, scheduled to conclude on October 11, brings together Santali-speaking Catholics for prayer, Bible reflection and fellowship.
Local Church representatives said the gathering was a pre-announced religious programme for Santali Catholics and denied allegations of forced conversion. Members of the group opposing the gathering reportedly made counter-allegations, underscoring the need for an impartial investigation.
The Times of India reported that a gathering organized by Hindu Jagran Manch took place near the church and that tensions escalated after speeches concerning alleged religious conversions. Villagers reportedly blocked a road following the confrontation.
Church representatives said a complaint had been submitted to the authorities and requested police protection for participants during the remaining days of the convention. Father Vincent George reportedly informed the Nadia district administration about the incident.
Details concerning injuries, property damage, arrests and the registration of formal police cases had not been independently confirmed at the time of writing.
The incident has renewed attention to the need to protect religious gatherings and maintain communal harmony. Allegations of unlawful conversion, assault or intimidation require impartial verification and must be addressed through lawful procedures.
For the Santali Catholic community, the immediate concern is to complete the convention peacefully and ensure that participants can practise their faith without fear.
The incident highlights a broader principle: differences over religion must be addressed through dialogue and the rule of law, not intimidation or violence. India’s Constitution guarantees freedom of conscience and the right to practise and profess religion, subject to constitutional limitations.