EFI Condemns Attack on Christian Pilgrims in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh

Jabalpur, 1 April, 2025 – The Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) has strongly condemned the detention of Christian pilgrims and the assault on clergy members in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, on 31 March.

According to reports, two buses carrying Christian tribals from Mandla district were intercepted while returning from a religious visit to Bhawartaal Garden as part of the Jubilee 2025 celebrations. The passengers were forcibly taken to Ranjhi police station under allegations of conversion activities. When Dr. Fr. Davis George, Vicar General of Jabalpur Diocese, and Fr. George T, diocesan procurator, arrived to assist, they were physically assaulted inside the station.

Vijayesh Lal, General Secretary of EFI, expressed deep concern over the incident. “The attack on senior clergy members inside a police station is deeply troubling,” he said. “Such incidents undermine constitutional protections and demand a fair and thorough investigation.”

The EFI highlighted that police officials at the scene found no evidence of forced conversions. The detained Christians affirmed that they and their ancestors have practised Christianity for generations. The organisation emphasised that tribal communities in India have the constitutional right to practise any religion while retaining their tribal identity and associated benefits.

EFI warned that this incident reflects a growing pattern of harassment and intimidation of religious minorities, threatening India’s tradition of peaceful coexistence.

The EFI urged:

1. The Madhya Pradesh government to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable.

2. The Ministry of Home Affairs to strengthen protections for religious minorities and ensure law enforcement upholds constitutional rights.

3. Civil society leaders to promote interfaith dialogue and communal harmony.

EFI reaffirmed its commitment to religious freedom and constitutional values, standing in solidarity with those affected by the incident.