Odisha: Church Attacked, Worship Stopped Amid Conversion Row.

Hindutva Activists Disrupt Church Service, Allegedly Prevent Conversion in Odisha’s Nabarangpur.

Radhika Mahapatra | HENB | Nabarangpur (Odisha) | Feb 1, 2026:: Tensions flared in Odisha’s Nabarangpur district after a group of Hindutva activists allegedly stormed a church in a tribal-dominated village, disrupted a religious gathering, and prevented members of the Christian community from conducting worship activities reportedly linked to religious conversion.

Incident Details

According to multiple media reports, the incident occurred in Kapina village under the Nabarangpur district. A group described as Hindutva activists entered the church premises while a prayer service was underway. Witnesses alleged that the group used loudspeakers to issue threats, warning the Christian community to stop activities related to conversion or face severe consequences.

The threats reportedly included warnings that the church would be demolished and that Christian families would be expelled from the village if they continued such religious practices.

Alleged Assault and Disruption of Worship

As per a report cited by The Times of India, when members of the Christian community questioned why they were being prevented from praying inside the church, the situation escalated into violence. The group allegedly assaulted several worshippers and forcibly drove them out of the church premises.

Two youths—17-year-old Jala Dharsanta and 20-year-old Mohan Santa—were reportedly beaten severely during the confrontation. The victims belong to the local tribal Christian community.

Police Response

Police officials have so far not taken direct action against the alleged perpetrators. According to the police version cited in reports, the incident was the result of pre-existing tensions between two groups in the village, which allegedly escalated due to suspected proselytising activities.

Authorities have reportedly played down the incident, framing it as a local dispute rather than a targeted attack, a stance that has drawn concern from members of the Christian community and civil rights observers.

Broader Context

Odisha has witnessed recurring tensions over religious conversions, particularly in tribal regions where faith, identity, and social dynamics often intersect. Incidents involving allegations of forced or induced conversions have periodically triggered communal confrontations in the state.

While India’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, several states, including Odisha, have laws regulating religious conversions, often becoming flashpoints for conflict at the local level.

Current Status

As of now:

• No arrests have been reported.
• The condition of the injured youths has not been officially disclosed.
• The situation in Kapina village remains tense but under watch.

Further investigation and official clarification are awaited.
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_Agency Inputs.