THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, Oct 5: A directive from the Simdega district administration has drawn sharp criticism from the Bajrang Dal, which has accused the Jharkhand government of exhibiting religious bias and practising communal appeasement.
According to an official communication dated October 4 2025 (Letter No. 412), issued by the confidential wing of the Simdega District Administration, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) has convened a meeting on October 15 to review security arrangements at churches across the district.
The meeting has been called to discuss safety measures for Christian places of worship. It is expected to include the participation of Bishops of the Catholic and GEL Churches, along with senior administrative and police officials, including the Deputy Development Commissioner (DDC), Additional Collectors, Block Development Officers (BDOs), Circle Officers (COs), and station house officers (SHOs).
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Bajrang Dal Alleges Government Partiality
Reacting to the circular, Bajrang Dal Jharkhand State Convenor Ranganath Mahto alleged that the state government was functioning under the influence of Christian missionaries and radical groups, rather than Chief Minister Hemant Soren.
“This government letter is a glaring example of partiality,” Mahto said in a statement. “The meeting is not about the safety of all religious communities but is focused solely on one sect. This raises serious concerns about the government’s secular credentials.”
Mahto further alleged that a “deep conspiracy” was being hatched in Simdega to target Hindu temples and to “intimidate and lure people away from their faith.” He also referred to alleged incidents of vandalism at Hindu temples and claimed that churches were being constructed on sites used for Durga Puja pandals, while the administration remained silent.
“If the government fails to clarify its position regarding this letter, Bajrang Dal, along with other Hindu organisations, will launch a phased, state-wide protest across Jharkhand,” he warned.
Church Influence in Simdega
Simdega, located in south-western Jharkhand, has one of the highest proportions of Christian residents in the state and is home to a well-established network of Catholic and Protestant institutions. These include schools, hospitals, and social service organisations that play a significant role in the district’s educational and community landscape.
