Nine individuals have been arrested by the Kodangal police for vandalizing a church in Eerlapalli village, located in the Daulatabad mandal of Vikarabad district, Telangana. This incident, which took place on December 15, 2025, has drawn significant outrage from civil rights organizations. The suspects, aged between 20 and 25, face serious charges under Sections 326 and 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), relating to mischief by fire and malicious acts intended to provoke religious sentiments. They have been remanded to judicial custody.
Details of the incident reveal that the group forcibly entered the church around 9:30 AM, causing considerable damage by setting fire to several items inside before fleeing the scene. Fortunately, no individuals were present in the church during the attack. Authorities believe that the suspects had previously raised objections regarding the church’s construction, leading to ongoing disputes over the land.
In response to this alarming act of vandalism, security measures have been strengthened at local churches in anticipation of Christmas celebrations. The attack has been vehemently condemned by the Civil Rights Initiative Internationale (CRII). National president K. Babu Rao, a retired Indian Police Service officer, highlighted the growing trend of intolerance in the region, pointing to similar incidents in Jinnaram and Mallapuram. A delegation from the CRII, which included national joint secretaries Suresh Pulugujju and Abhishek, along with executive committee member C.N. Rao, visited Jinnaram village following reports of an alleged attack on Christian worshippers during a prayer meeting at a private residence.
The CRII also cited an attack on Christmas carol singers in Mallapuram, which occurred just a day before the Eerlapalli incident. This raised further concerns, especially given the State government’s assurances that it would not tolerate acts of religious hatred. The organization called for urgent action and reaffirmed its commitment to standing against such violence.
As Christmas approaches, these incidents have heightened tensions within the community, sparking debates about religious tolerance in Telangana. The local population, particularly within the Christian community, is taking note of these concerning events as they prepare for the festive season. Ensuring safety during this time remains a priority for law enforcement agencies.
As Telangana grapples with issues of religious intolerance, it remains to be seen how such incidents will impact the broader societal landscape. Community leaders and civil rights advocates stress the need for dialogue and understanding to foster harmony in a diverse state like Telangana.
The recent wave of violence is a wake-up call, indicating that vigilance is necessary to protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of their faith. With the holiday season underway, it is imperative for all stakeholders to address these challenges head-on to ensure peaceful celebrations throughout the region.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/nine-arrested-for-vandalizing-church-in-vikarabad-crii-condemns-attacks/article70434499.ece
Category : Telangana
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Publish Date: 2025-12-25 11:13:00
