Christians in Maharashtra demand legal action against BJP MLA for anti-Christian remarks

Maharashtra, July 9, 2025: Members of the Christian community in Maharashtra have strongly condemned BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar for allegedly making violent, hate-filled remarks targeting Christian priests and their families. On July 8, the Pune Christian Forum staged a peaceful protest outside the Pune District Collector’s Office, calling for legal action and Padalkar’s immediate disqualification. Another major peaceful demonstration is planned at Azad Maidan in Mumbai on Friday, July 11. Separately, Christian representatives in Sindhudurg submitted a formal memorandum to district authorities on July 7, urging accountability and protection for the community.

The statements attributed to Padalkar were reportedly made during a torch march in Sangli (Kupwad) on June 17. According to a press note issued by Christian groups, the MLA used inflammatory language and allegedly announced monetary rewards of Rs. 3 lakh for attacking a Christian priest, Rs. 5 lakh for breaking their limbs, and Rs. 11 lakh for killing a priest and his family. These remarks, if confirmed, have been described by protestors as incitement to violence and a grave threat to communal harmony.

At the peaceful protest in Pune, participants demanded that legal proceedings be initiated under applicable sections of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, including Section 192 (incitement to violence), Section 198 (disrespect by a public servant towards the law), Section 111 (abetment of criminal acts), and Section 302 (encouragement to commit murder). They also called for strong enforcement against hate speech and better safeguards for minority communities.

In Sindhudurg, Roman Catholic representatives submitted a detailed memorandum to District Collector Anil Patil and Superintendent of Police Mohan Dahikar. They accused the MLA of spreading dangerous misinformation about the Christian faith and endangering lives. The memorandum highlighted the Christian community’s long-standing history of peaceful coexistence, stressing that all worship services are held legally in registered churches and that the Church does not engage in forced conversions.

“Such irresponsible and dangerous rhetoric from an elected representative not only tarnishes our image but also poses a threat to the safety of our community,” the memorandum stated, demanding a public apology, Padalkar’s resignation, and immediate legal action.

The protest at Azad Maidan is expected to bring together Christian organisations, human rights advocates, and interfaith coalitions from across the state. Organisers say the peaceful demonstration will also raise concerns about increasing threats and attacks on churches in Maharashtra.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

Courtesy & Image credit: Indian Express