Bajrang Dal Members Protest Outside Bareilly Cathedral in Uttar Pradesh

Bareilly, Dec 26, 2025: Around 15 to 20 Bajrang Dal members gathered outside the gate of St. Alphonsus Cathedral on December 24 following objections raised over a Christmas programme held on the cathedral campus. The group remained outside the premises, raised slogans and recited religious verses outside the church gate.

Speaking to Catholic Connect, Bishop Ignatius D’Souza of Bareilly said the incident stemmed from a programme held on the campus that addressed contemporary social causes. According to him, the programme—organised by a school—highlighted social issues and values.

However, he said certain individuals made assumptions that the presentation was intended to belittle Hindus, an allegation he said was not supported by facts.

The Bishop said a complaint was subsequently taken to the police station seeking the registration of an FIR against the school management. He stated that police officials asked for factual evidence to support the allegations, but as no such material was produced, no FIR was registered. He added that the police acted in a cooperative manner throughout and informed the Church in advance about a proposed protest, while also deploying personnel to ensure safety.

Speaking to Catholic Connect, Fr. John Stany D’Silva, Parish Priest of. St. Alphonsus Cathedral, said the group arrived in the evening and stayed for about 20 minutes. He said slogans such as “Jai Shri Ram” and “Vande Bharat” were raised, following which the Hanuman Chalisa was recited, and the group dispersed without interacting with anyone.

He further said that Christmas celebrations at the cathedral continued the following day, with over one lakh people visiting the cathedral, and the celebrations proceeded without any incident.

By Catholic Connect Reporter