Hindutva Group Vandalizes Christmas Decorations in Raipur Mall Amid Tensions

In a troubling incident in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, a Hindutva mob vandalized Christmas decorations at a local mall just before the holiday. This act of aggression coincided with a state-wide strike protesting alleged illegal religious conversions. The situation escalated following communal clashes over a Christian burial in Kanker district, leading to increased tensions and violence against Christians in the region. Reports of similar incidents across India have raised concerns about religious freedom and safety during the festive season. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India has condemned these attacks, highlighting the need for protection of constitutional rights.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 25, 2025, 10:26 IST

Incident at Raipur Mall

A group identified with Hindutva ideology vandalized Christmas decorations at a shopping mall in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, as reported by a local news outlet.

Footage shared on social media depicts the mob, equipped with sticks, forcefully entering the mall and destroying festive decorations just one day before Christmas.

This incident coincided with a state-wide strike called by a Hindutva organization to protest against alleged illegal religious conversions in Chhattisgarh, according to reports from a regional media channel.

An employee from the mall, who wished to remain anonymous, reported that around 80 to 90 individuals stormed in, threatening staff and engaging in violent behavior.

He stated, “For the past 16 years, we have always supported bandh calls, but I have never witnessed such aggression.”

Background of the Tensions

The bandh was initiated following communal unrest related to the burial of a Christian individual in Kanker district, which sparked significant tensions.

On December 16, in the village of Bade Teoda, a local leader named Rajman Salam buried his father, who had passed away, claiming he had converted to Christianity while his father had not.

Salam alleged that he sought permission from village elders for the burial according to tribal customs but was denied due to his faith.

He proceeded with a Christian burial on his private property, leading to violent clashes in the area, as reported by another news outlet.

Following the initial clashes on December 16 and 17, police secured the area, but tensions escalated again on December 18 when a mob breached police barricades, resulting in further violence.

In recent days, there have been multiple reports of attacks on Christians and disruptions to Christmas festivities across various locations.

Further Incidents of Vandalism

On the same day, members of the Bajrang Dal reportedly entered a school in Nalbari district, Assam, where they destroyed Christmas decorations and damaged posters, according to police sources.

Video footage showed the group setting fire to decorations while chanting slogans.

In Kerala, a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh was arrested after a group of children singing Christmas carols was attacked in Pudussery village.

Last week, some schools in Kerala associated with Hindutva organizations allegedly halted Christmas celebrations, although school management denied these claims.

In Haridwar, Uttarakhand, a state-run hotel canceled a Christmas event following protests from a local religious group.

Additionally, a video surfaced showing individuals in Delhi threatening women and children wearing Santa Claus hats, shared by a political leader.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India expressed alarm over the rising incidents of violence against Christians leading up to Christmas, emphasizing that these actions undermine the constitutional right to religious freedom.