A case has been registered in Odisha after a local church priest alleged that members of a Hindutva organization, Bajrang Dal, forced him to eat a cow dung cake during a confrontation, triggering widespread condemnation and political reactions across the state.
According to the police complaint, the incident occurred in a rural area of Odisha when a group of Bajrang Dal activists allegedly entered the church premises and accused the priest of encouraging religious conversions. The priest claimed that during the altercation, he was verbally abused, threatened, and forcibly made to eat a cow dung-based substance as an act of humiliation. Following the incident, the priest approached the local police station and filed a formal complaint.
Police officials confirmed that a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against unidentified members of the organization under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including charges related to assault, intentional insult, and promoting enmity between communities. An investigation is currently underway, and authorities have stated that statements from witnesses are being recorded.
The incident has sparked strong reactions from religious groups, civil society organizations, and political leaders. Christian organizations have demanded swift arrests and strict action against those responsible, calling the act a serious violation of human dignity and religious freedom. Several opposition parties have also criticized the state government, alleging a failure to protect minority communities.
Meanwhile, local administration officials have appealed for calm and urged citizens not to spread rumors or misinformation. Police have increased security in the area to prevent further tension and maintain law and order.
The state government has assured that the law will take its course and that no individual or group will be allowed to take the law into their own hands. As investigations continue, the incident has once again brought national attention to issues of religious intolerance, communal harmony, and the need for strict enforcement of constitutional rights in India.
