Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh — Tension briefly rose in Bareilly after members of the Bajrang Dal staged a protest outside a local church (Girja) over a Christmas programme being organised there. The demonstration took place as the church was preparing for special prayers and celebrations marking the Christmas season.
According to police sources, a group of Bajrang Dal workers gathered outside the church, raising slogans and objecting to the programme. They claimed the event was being used for religious conversions, a charge that church authorities strongly denied.
The police were quickly deployed to the area to prevent any disturbance and maintain law and order. Senior officials held talks with both sides, after which the situation was brought under control. The Christmas programme inside the church continued under tight security.
Church representatives said the event was purely religious and cultural, meant for prayers and community gathering, and had no connection with any forced or illegal activity. They appealed for peace and harmony during the festive season.
Police stated that no violence was reported, and the protest ended after some time. However, they warned that strict action would be taken against anyone trying to disturb communal harmony.
The incident once again highlighted the sensitivity around religious events and the need for dialogue and tolerance among communities.
Reported by Anam Siddiqui .
