In a disturbing incident on Christmas Eve, a group of activists allegedly associated with the Bajrang Dal forcibly entered a Christian missionary school in Assam and destroyed its festive decorations. The event has sparked concerns over communal harmony in the region.
Incident Details: Vandalism on Christmas Eve
The incident occurred on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at St. Mary’s English School in Panigaon, Nalbari district. According to officials, the school, which falls under the Diocese of Bongaigaon and has around 1,000 students, was closed for winter holidays and thus empty at the time.
Father James Vadakeyil from the diocese stated that a group of approximately nine individuals arrived at the premises around 3 pm. They initially looked for the principal and, upon not finding him, proceeded to vandalise the property. The assailants reportedly dismantled and burned a nativity crib and all other Christmas decorations on display. A large admission banner was also destroyed in the process.
Videos circulating from the scene purportedly capture the group shouting slogans associated with the Bajrang Dal, as well as chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ and ‘Jai Hindu Rashtra’.
Police Response and Additional Vandalism
The authorities have taken cognizance of the event. Nalbari SSP Bibekananda Das confirmed that the police received a formal complaint from the school management. The investigation has revealed that the same group was involved in another act of vandalism earlier that day.
"Along with the incident in the school, the same group of people also went to a shop in a market in Nalbari town where items like Santa caps and masks were being sold, and burned them," the SSP said. He added that the police are preparing to register a combined First Information Report (FIR) covering both these connected incidents.
Context and Reactions
This targeted attack on Christmas symbols in an educational institution has raised alarms. The school, established in 2010, is a part of the local community in Panigaon. The timing of the incident, on the eve of a major Christian festival, has added to the gravity of the situation.
Local law enforcement is actively working to identify all individuals involved in the acts of vandalism. The case highlights ongoing tensions and the challenge of maintaining secular peace, especially during religious festivals. The community awaits further action from the police as the investigation progresses.
