Fire Guts Historic Village Chapel in Assam, Investigations Underway

Tezpur, Assam, January 17, 2025: A devastating fire engulfed and destroyed St. Theresa of Child Jesus Chapel in Chokragaon village, Assam, on the night of January 15, 2025. Authorities are investigating the incident, which Church leaders suspect was an act of arson. The fire occurred just days after the village celebrated the ordination of two local priests, Father Charles Murmu and Father Lambert Ekka.

The chapel, a 75-year-old structure under Ambagaon parish in the Diocese of Tezpur, was reduced to ashes around 10 p.m., according to Fr. Xavier Narzary, Secretary to the Bishop of Tezpur. He mentioned that the village was a vibrant Catholic community, comprising Santalis, Bodos, Nepalis, and Adivasis. "Although it is a village, our community is home to an impressive 160 Catholic families, from which many religious sisters and priests have emerged over the years. The villagers will now be compelled to travel to their Parish Church or gather in one another’s homes to continue their prayers and spiritual gatherings,” he added.

Bishop Michael Akasius Toppo of Tezpur urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of such acts of violence. He remarked that attacks on places of worship not only damage the physical structures but also undermine the unity and fabric of the community. 

Fr. Narzary hinted at possible foul play, noting that the fire came shortly after the celebration of the ordinations in the village. He described the loss as unprecedented in the diocese’s history, adding, “The villagers are completely heartbroken and deeply worried about how they will rebuild their cherished church, especially after recently making generous contributions for the ordination celebrations. They now face the arduous task of reconstructing the roof and the altar, as the statues have been destroyed and nearly everything inside the church has been reduced to ashes.”

The district administration and local police are investigating the cause of the fire, while Christian organizations, including the Assam Christian Forum and the United Christian Forum of Udalguri, have extended their solidarity to the villagers. These groups have called for prayers and support as the community grapples with the loss of its cherished place of worship.

The chapel, built in 1950, was not only a place of worship but also a cornerstone of the community’s spiritual and cultural life. As investigations continue, the villagers remain united in their hope to rebuild and heal from this tragic incident.

By Catholic Connect Reporter