RSS-linked mobs disrupt Christian house prayers in West Bengal as leader preaches love abroad

A series of incidents in West Bengal saw members of RSS-linked organisations, including the VHP and Bajrang Dal, break into house-based Christian prayer meetings across several districts, shouting Hindu slogans and physically confronting attendees. Police escorted some of the worshippers to a health centre for checks before taking them to the local police station for questioning, after which they were released. The assaults were recorded and shared on social media, with perpetrators identifying themselves as part of the Shree Ram Janmotsab Samity, a group that openly affiliates with the RSS.

At the same time, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat toured North America and the United Kingdom, portraying the organisation as a promoter of "Shuddha Satvik Prem" and religious tolerance. Christian representatives, including pastor Joy Kumar Ghughu and Bangiya Christiya Pariseba secretary Herod Mullick, have appealed to the state minority-welfare minister for protection, citing Article 25 of the Indian Constitution. Opposition politicians have described the attacks as an assault on the state’s tradition of religious coexistence.