A horrifying incident has emerged from Odisha that has left the Christian community shaken and raised serious concerns over the misuse of police power. In a shocking turn of events, police officials allegedly stormed into the premises of Juba Parish under the Berhampur Diocese and brutally assaulted a Catholic priest along with several devotees, sparking outrage and disbelief.
According to multiple reports, the incident took place on March 22, when a group of police officers, allegedly without any prior notice or legal mandate, entered the peaceful church compound and began physically assaulting those present. The main target of their aggression was reportedly Father Joshi George, the parish priest of the church, who was left injured and humiliated inside a place considered sacred by the faithful. Devotees who had gathered for prayers were also not spared—many were beaten, pushed around, and traumatized by the unexpected assault.
The police, it is claimed, were acting in connection to a raid that had taken place in the area the day before, targeting alleged illegal cannabis activities. During that raid, several individuals from the locality had been taken into custody. However, there has been no established link between the church community and those involved in the criminal activities. In fact, according to Father George and members of the church, the parish has been actively working against the use and sale of narcotics, spreading awareness and urging the community to stay away from such evils.
Despite this, the police reportedly chose to descend upon the church, vandalizing its property and violating the sanctity of the space. Items within the church were allegedly stolen or damaged during the assault, adding insult to injury. Father George, visibly shaken and confused, later spoke to media channels questioning the rationale behind the police action and stating that neither he nor his parishioners had any involvement in the matter under investigation.
The Christian community in Odisha and across India has expressed outrage over the incident. Many see this as a blatant abuse of authority and a dangerous sign of increasing hostility towards religious minorities. Civil society groups and human rights organizations have called for a thorough, impartial investigation into the matter and demanded that the police officers responsible be held accountable.
The event has not only triggered emotional turmoil within the local Christian community but has also ignited fears about the safety of religious minorities and the integrity of sacred institutions. The lack of immediate clarification or apology from the police has only deepened the wounds caused by the incident.
This is not just a matter of law and order—it is a test of the state's commitment to justice, religious freedom, and human dignity. As the community awaits action, one thing remains painfully clear: the echoes of violence within a place of prayer will not fade quietly.