The week from January 19 to January 25, 2026, saw a disturbing series of incidents that underline the growing challenges of religious intolerance and mounting communal pressures in India. Reports from multiple states pointed to harassment, coercive religious conversions, intimidation, and targeted pressure on minority communities, including vulnerable groups such as minors, raising serious concerns about the erosion of the constitutional right to practise faith freely and without fear. In the face of such developments, the onus lies on Organiser, as a voice of the nation, to document, scrutinise and bring these incidents to public attention, ensuring that they are neither normalised nor ignored. Beyond individual cases, the period also witnessed attacks on places of worship and organised attempts to reshape community demographics through sustained conversion pressure, a pattern that, if left unchallenged, risks deepening social fault lines and weakening the foundations of trust essential for peaceful coexistence. The detailed incidents recorded between January 19 and January 25, 2026, are outlined below.
January 19, 2026
1. Banners Depicting Hindu Deities Desecrated in Amritsar
An incident involving the desecration of banners depicting Hindu deities was reported in Amritsar, Punjab, on 19 January 2026. The incident occurred in Ganda Wali Gali in the Nanak Mandi area of the city. Videos of the incident circulated on social media, drawing public attention and prompting a police response. According to the footage and subsequent reports, the banners depicting Hindu deities were placed on the ground and subjected to acts described as disrespectful. In the video, the accused is seen stepping on the banners while wearing shoes, kicking them, wiping his shoes after stepping on them, and spitting on the banners. The recording was filmed from a nearby rooftop and lasted approximately 52 seconds. The incident was reported to have caused anger among members of the Hindu community after the video went viral online.
Following the circulation of the video, a separate video of approximately two minutes also surfaced. In this video, Naman Kapoor, identified as the general secretary of the District Congress Committee, is seen standing near the accused. Victim details were presented through a complaint by Sachin Mahira, President of the All India Hindu Sangharsh Committee. In his statement to the police, he said that on the evening of 19 January 2026, he saw a video on social media showing a person placing images of Hindu deities on the ground and performing derogatory acts. He stated that the incident hurt religious sentiments and led to anger within the Hindu community, as images of deities hold religious importance.
2. Anti-Hindu Remarks and Scriptural References Defended by Senior Politician
An incident involving controversial public statements referencing Hindu scriptures was reported in Delhi on 19 January 2026, following remarks made earlier in a media interview on 17 January. The issue arose after comments by Congress MLA Phool Singh Baraiya from Madhya Pradesh sparked widespread criticism for invoking religious texts while discussing sexual violence.
In the interview, Baraiya made statements linking incidents of rape against Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, and Other Backwards Class women to what he described as religious beliefs held by offenders. He referred to a text he identified as the Rudrayamal Tantra and claimed that it suggested sexual intercourse with women of certain castes yielded religious merit similar to a pilgrimage. During the same interaction, he made additional remarks suggesting that rape could be influenced by a woman’s appearance and asserted that rape could not occur without consent, including in cases involving infants.
The remarks drew condemnation for misrepresenting Hindu religious concepts and for appearing to trivialise sexual violence. The criticism focused on the use of religious references in a manner described by commentators as derogatory toward Hindu beliefs and harmful in the context of discussions on rape and gender-based violence.
3. Hindu Youth’s Body Recovered Gagged and Tortured After Going Missing in Rahim Yar Khan
The body of a Hindu youth was recovered from the Takht Punjab area of Rahim Yar Khan, Punjab province, Pakistan, on 19 January 2026. The body was found in a gagged and tortured condition, and the incident came to light after the individual had earlier been reported missing.
The deceased was identified as Krishan Kumar Jaipal, a young member of Pakistan’s Hindu minority community. According to available information, he had disappeared under mysterious circumstances, and efforts were underway to trace him. His body was later recovered in a severely brutalised state, with reports stating that it was bound, gagged, and showed signs of torture. No official details were reported regarding the identity of the perpetrators or the motive behind the killing. At the time of reporting, no information was available about arrests or progress in the investigation, and the case status remained unknown.
4. Hindu Family Attacked in Muzaffarnagar for Opposing Derogatory Content Targeting Their Faith
An incident of assault was reported from Baseda village in Muzaffarnagar district, Uttar Pradesh, on 19 January 2026, following objections raised by a Hindu family to objectionable social media content targeting the Hindu religion. The incident led to injuries and heightened tension in the area.
The matter began when a Muslim youth, identified as Fardeen, was making and posting objectionable videos on social media targeting the Hindu religion and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Vishal Gupta, son of Mukesh Gupta, objected to these videos. Following his objection, Fardeen, along with Tayyab, son of Mahtab, Shakib, son of Babu, Mohammad Kaif alias Mithun, and several associates, allegedly entered Vishal Gupta’s house and assaulted him and his family. During the attack, Vishal Gupta was beaten, while his wife and aunt were abused and physically assaulted, resulting in injuries. As the incident involved members of different communities, tension escalated in the area. Later the same night, workers of a Hindu organisation gathered at Chhapar police station and demanded strict action against those involved.
A complaint was filed by Vishal Gupta, after which the police registered a case against five named individuals and around twenty unidentified persons. Station in-charge Mohit Sehrawat stated that three accused, including Fardeen and Tayyab, were challaned for disturbing public peace, and that further investigation in the matter was ongoing.
5. Bangladesh Government Describes Attacks on Hindus as Non-Communal Amid Rising Violence
On 19 January 2026, the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of Bangladesh said that violence against Hindus in the country was largely criminal rather than communal, issuing the statement through the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing days after India, on 9 January, urged Dhaka to act firmly against attacks on Hindu minorities. The interim administration claimed that of 645 incidents involving minorities recorded between January and December 2025, only 71 had communal elements, while 574 were non-communal, with the former largely involving vandalism or desecration of religious sites, including 38 cases of temple vandalism, eight incidents of arson, one murder, and other acts such as threats, provocative social media posts and damage to worship structures. India’s Ministry of External Affairs rejected this characterisation, warning that attributing attacks to personal disputes or political rivalries downplayed the gravity of a recurring pattern of violence against Hindus and deepened minority insecurity, citing incidents such as the killing of Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh.
The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council reported 51 communal incidents in December 2025 alone and flagged a surge in attacks as elections scheduled for 12 February 2026 approached, particularly affecting minority voters. The MEA further said independent sources had documented more than 2,900 incidents of violence against minorities during the interim government’s tenure, including killings, arson and land grabbing, and stressed that safeguarding minorities was the Bangladeshi state’s responsibility. Tensions escalated further after the December 2025 killing of Muslim student leader Sharif Osman Bin Hadi in Dhaka, following which Hindu homes, properties and religious sites were targeted in multiple areas, triggering arson, mob violence and forced displacement, as Hindus were blamed for his death.
6. Tamil Nadu Authorities Deny Permission for Rath Yatra Linked to Mahamagam Mahotsav
State authorities in Tamil Nadu denied permission for a Rath Yatra associated with the Kerala Kumbh Mela–Mahamagam Mahotsav on 19 January 2026. The procession was scheduled to begin from the Thirumoorthy Hills near Udumalpet in Tiruppur district, the source of the Bharathapuzha River. The DMK-led Tamil Nadu government refused permission for the Yatra to proceed within the state.
Organisers stated that the Udumalpet police stopped the Rath Yatra midway, informing them that senior government officials in Chennai had denied approval. Following this, the Mahameru idol being carried as part of the Yatra was transported by car to the Kerala border, from where the procession continued to Palakkad. The Rath Yatra was a key component of the Mahamagha Mahotsavam held along the banks of the Bharathapuzha River in Thirunavaya, Kerala. Organisers said the procession symbolised long-standing cultural and spiritual ties between Tamil Nadu and Kerala and was expected to be attended by heads of several ashrams and religious institutions from Tamil Nadu. The Yatra concluded on 21 January 2026 in Thirunavaya, where the main Kumbh Mela rituals were held. Despite the denial of permission in Tamil Nadu, the Mahamagha Mahotsavam 2026 celebrations commenced in Kerala on 19 January 2026. Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar inaugurated the event by hoisting the ceremonial flag. Acharya Dr Srinath Karyat, who led the Rath Yatra, stated that although the Tamil Nadu administration did not cooperate, the Yatra and associated religious rituals were completed in Kerala as scheduled.
January 20, 2026
7. Hindu Saint’s Samadhi Desecrated in Shravasti After Illegal Islamic Shrine Built Over It
In Belhari village of Shravasti district, Uttar Pradesh, the samadhi of a Hindu saint known as Pera Baba was desecrated after members of the Muslim community illegally constructed an Islamic shrine (mazaar) over it. The samadhi is a memorial shrine built at the burial or cremation site of a Hindu saint who attained mahasamadhi and is considered sacred by devotees.
The matter came to light when the local administration carried out a demolition drive on 20 January 2026. Acting under the directions of Sub-Divisional Magistrate Bhinga Ashish Bhardwaj, and in the presence of heavy police deployment, the illegally constructed mazaar along with an adjacent unauthorised room was demolished. The administration stated that the structure stood on “new fallow” land recorded as government property in revenue records. Security forces were deployed across the area during the operation due to prevailing tensions.
Local Hindu residents stated that the samadhi of Pera Baba, a follower of Sanatan Dharma, had been gradually encroached upon and converted into a mazaar several years ago. The land had originally been leased to four local residents around 32 years earlier, following which the encroachment allegedly took place over time. After objections were raised by Hindu organisations and the original landholders, an official investigation was conducted, which found the construction to be illegal.
8. Hindu Women Sexually Exploited and Blackmailed for Religious Conversion by Gym Trainers in Mirzapur
In Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh, several Hindu women were targeted, sexually exploited, and blackmailed for religious conversion by a group of Muslim men who operated a conversion network under the guise of running local gyms. The accused were identified as Mohammad Sheikh Ali Alam, Faisal Khan, Zaheer, and Shadab, who ran gym facilities named KGN-1, KGN-2, KGN-3, and Iron Fire.
According to police complaints, the accused befriended Hindu girls and women who enrolled at their gyms and gradually lured them into personal relationships. The victims stated that they were sexually exploited, during which their private photographs and videos were secretly recorded without consent. These materials were later used to blackmail and intimidate them through threats of public defamation, circulation of obscene content, and physical harm, while repeatedly pressuring them to convert to Islam. One victim stated that she was forced to wear a burqa and photographed, with the images later used as a means of coercion and extortion.
Two victims approached the police and filed complaints on 20 January 2026. Separate cases were registered at Kotwali Dehat and City police stations in Mirzapur. Following the complaints, Mirzapur Police constituted multiple investigation teams and arrested Mohammad Sheikh Ali Alam and Faisal Khan on the same day. During interrogation and examination of digital evidence recovered from mobile phones, the police identified Zaheer, the owner of KGN-1 gym, and Shadab as part of the same network, leading to their arrest.
9. Hindu Sentiments Outraged After Objectionable Video Targeting Hindu Deities Circulates in Bareilly
In Shahi town of Bareilly district, Uttar Pradesh, Hindu sentiments were hurt after an objectionable video circulated widely on social media, showing a young man making derogatory remarks against Hindu deities. The video also contained abusive language directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Shahi Mandal President Anurodh Singh submitted a written complaint to the police stating that the video insulted Hindu religious beliefs and revered figures and had the potential to disturb communal harmony. He demanded immediate legal action, stating that the content promoted hatred and created social unrest.
Taking cognisance of the complaint, police officials initiated an investigation and visited the village of the accused. The accused’s house was found locked. Police stated that the individual had been living outside the area for livelihood purposes and that the video was uploaded from outside the Shahi jurisdiction, though he remained a resident of the locality.
10. Hindu Families Return to Ancestral Faith After Alleging Misleading Conversion by Christian Missionaries in Odisha
In Nabarangpur district of Odisha, 13 Hindus from three families stated that they were misled and manipulated into converting to Christianity by Christian missionaries a few years ago. The incident came to light on 20 January 2026, when the families formally returned to Hinduism through a gharwapsi ceremony.
The individuals belonged to Kamata and Amalabhata villages under the Tentulikhunti block. Dilip Kumar Garda from Kamata village returned to Sanatana Dharma along with five members of his family. From Amalabhata village, six members of Gagan Bihari Garda’s family and two members of Praveen Kumar Garda’s family also reconverted. The return to Hinduism was carried out voluntarily through a religious ceremony held at Tapovan Ashram.
The gharwapsi ceremony was conducted according to traditional Vedic rites. All the families participated together in a yagna and offered prayers at the feet of Lord Jagannath Mahaprabhu, symbolically reaffirming their faith. The rituals were conducted by Pujari Sarveshwar Tripathi. Several local community members were present, including Prahlad Garad, Subhash Harijan, Loknath Harijan, Laxman Khura, Din Harijan, and Trilochan Bisoyi.
11. London: Minor Hindu Boy Harassed and Forced to Leave School Over Wearing Tilak
London, UK, January 20, 2026: An eight-year-old Hindu student at Vicar’s Green Primary School in the London Borough of Ealing was reportedly subjected to ongoing harassment by school authorities for wearing a tilak, a sacred Hindu symbol, on his forehead. The discrimination escalated to the point where the child was compelled to leave the school.
According to reports, school staff repeatedly questioned the boy about his tilak and required him to explain and justify the religious significance of the mark in an intimidating manner. The headteacher also monitored the child closely during breaks, creating an atmosphere of fear and isolation. The boy reportedly withdrew from interacting with peers and was removed from positions of responsibility solely because of his religious observance.
The child’s parents, along with support from other Hindu families, approached the school multiple times to explain the religious importance of the tilak. Their concerns were reportedly dismissed, and no accommodation was provided.
January 21, 2026
12. Bangalore: Karnataka High Court Criticises Comedy Show Mocking Hindu Deities
Bangalore, Karnataka, January 21, 2026: The Karnataka High Court has expressed strong disapproval over derogatory content targeting Hindu deities in the popular Kannada comedy show Comedy Khiladigalu, aired on Zee Kannada. The court raised questions about the limits of humour and the responsibilities of content creators in respecting religious sentiments.
The controversy began after Prashant Shashidhar Naragund, a resident of Hubballi, filed a complaint alleging that certain episodes of the show contained offensive jokes involving Hindu mythological figures, including Lord Krishna, Draupadi, and King Dhritarashtra. The complainant argued that the skits went beyond satire, humiliating revered figures and hurting the religious sentiments of viewers.
Following the complaint, a First Information Report (FIR) was registered at Subramanyapura Police Station in Bengaluru under Section 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The case prompted the show’s organisers to approach the High Court seeking relief and quashing of the FIR.
During hearings, the court highlighted the tension between freedom of expression and religious sensitivity. While senior advocate Sandesh Chouta, representing the show’s producers, argued that the episodes depicted fictional characters rehearsing scenes from the Mahabharata and were intended purely for entertainment, the court remained unconvinced.
Justice M. Nagaprasanna remarked that freedom of speech was not absolute, especially when it conflicted with religious beliefs. “Anything under the garb of free speech? You do not deserve any indulgence. Such people do not deserve any indulgence who display gods and mythological figures as useless,” he stated during the proceedings. The court questioned why the rehearsal scenes needed to be broadcast at all and noted that the content was prima facie offensive.
The court has adjourned the matter for further consideration but provided interim relief, instructing police not to arrest the petitioner while ensuring full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
13. Darrang, Assam: 16 Hindu Temples Attacked, Idols Desecrated
Darrang, Assam, January 21, 2026: Sixteen Hindu temples in the Darrang district were vandalised and sacred idols desecrated on Wednesday, prompting shock and outrage across local communities. Most of the temples targeted were dedicated to Goddess Kali, located in Mangaldoi and surrounding villages including Moamari, Gerimari, and Gosaigaon.
According to reports, the attackers broke into the temples, beheaded the clay idols, and vandalised other religious items kept within the premises. Some of the temples affected include Gerimari Okhabheti Malou Chuba Shiv Temple, Bihari Basti Kali Mandir, South Bihari Basti Kali Mandir, and Moamari Shiv Mandir, among others. The desecration was discovered on the morning of January 22 when priests and devotees arrived for morning rituals.
Police teams were immediately dispatched, and authorities urged residents to maintain peace. Investigations revealed that illegal immigrants displaced by eviction drives were suspected of carrying out the attacks. Five men identified as Mahir Ali, Shamsul Ali, Mokshed Ali, Jahinur Ali, and Nurzamal Ali, were arrested on January 25. Police indicated that more individuals might have been involved, noting that the coordinated attacks across multiple remote villages suggested a planned conspiracy.
Authorities continue to investigate the extent of the vandalism and the possibility of wider involvement, while local residents remain on alert. The incident has sparked wider debate about the protection of religious sites and the rising threat of communal violence in remote areas.
14. Aurangabad, Maharashtra: Muslim Youth Faces Backlash for Glorifying Aurangzeb on Social Media
Aurangabad, Maharashtra, January 21, 2026: A social media post by a Muslim youth, Armaan Badshah, praising the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb has sparked outrage in Sambhajinagar, with users condemning it as offensive and anti-Hindu. The post, shared on Instagram, glorified Aurangzeb’s campaigns against Hindus, including temple destructions and massacres.
In the video, Badshah reportedly said, “kill and assault someone (Hindus) so badly that it causes pain to their lineage for the next 350 years… #AurangzebAlamgir.” The remarks were seen by many as mocking the historical persecution of Hindus and indirectly insulting revered Maratha figures such as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who was executed by Aurangzeb for refusing conversion.
The post quickly went viral, drawing widespread criticism on social media. Users tagged local police, urging authorities to take action against Badshah for his provocative statements targeting the Hindu community.
Local authorities have reportedly registered the matter for investigation, while discussions continue about the potential legal implications of social media content that incites religious animosity.
15. Sidhauli, Uttar Pradesh: Man Faces Backlash for Posting Offensive Content Against Hindu Deities on Social Media
Sidhauli, UP, January 21, 2026: A local resident, Vikas Gautam of Narottam Nagar, has come under scrutiny after repeatedly posting derogatory videos and content targeting Hindu gods and goddesses on social media.
The Rashtriya Hindu Sher Sena filed a formal complaint with the Sidhauli police, stating that Gautam’s posts were offensive, hurt religious sentiments, and had the potential to create social tension. Kamal Hindu, the organisation’s assembly in-charge, urged authorities to take appropriate action.
Following the complaint, Gautam was summoned to the Sidhauli police station. During the proceedings, he admitted to posting the offensive material, issued a written apology, and recorded a video acknowledging his mistake. He reportedly assured authorities that he would refrain from sharing objectionable content in the future.
Local authorities confirmed that while Gautam apologised, the posts had already circulated online and were viewed as a deliberate attack on Hindu religious symbols and deities. Observers noted that repeated targeting of sacred figures in public digital spaces can inflame communal sensitivities and constitutes a serious affront to Hindu faith and beliefs.
16. Srinagar, Uttarakhand: Hindu Woman Deceived and Exploited by Man Pretending to Be Hindu
Srinagar, Pauri Garhwal, January 21, 2026: A Hindu woman at Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University was allegedly deceived, sexually exploited, and blackmailed by a man who concealed his religious identity to pose as a Hindu.
The accused, Sameer Jafri, a resident of Jatpura village in Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh, reportedly used the name “Sameer Dwivedi” to gain the trust of the victim via social media. He cultivated a relationship under false pretences, eventually raping her and taking obscene photos and videos. He is said to have used these materials to extort and threaten her, causing severe psychological distress that led the victim to attempt suicide.
The case came to light when former District Panchayat member Lakhpat Bhandari accompanied the victim to the Kotwali Srinagar police station, presenting documentary and digital evidence. An FIR was registered on January 21 under sections related to rape, criminal intimidation, blackmail, and deception under false promise of marriage. Police have taken Jafri into custody and launched a detailed investigation, including examining digital communications and statements from the victim.
Police confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and called for community support in ensuring the safety and justice for the victim.
January 22, 2026
17. Hindu Villagers Allegedly Lured Into Religious Conversion Through Prayer Meetings in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh
In Maswasi village of Unnao district, Uttar Pradesh, allegations surfaced regarding Hindu villagers being induced to convert during gatherings presented as prayer meetings organised by Christian evangelists. The incident came to light on January 22, 2026, after concerns were raised by local residents about such activities taking place in the village.
Following information about the gatherings, Bajrang Dal activists reached the village and staged a protest, which led to tension in the area. The activists stated that certain individuals were attempting to lure Hindu families into religious conversion and claimed that these activities had been occurring secretly for a considerable period.
A complaint was filed at Kotwali Sadar police station by a man named Purushottam, who stated that systematic attempts were being made to persuade innocent villagers to abandon their religion. He sought an impartial investigation and strict legal action against those involved.
Based on the complaint, the police initiated an investigation. During the preliminary inquiry, two to three individuals were detained and questioned regarding the purpose of the gatherings and whether any conversion-related activities were being conducted. Additional police forces were deployed in the village to maintain peace and prevent further escalation.
18. Hindu Woman Alleges Forced Conversion, Abuse, and Separation From Children in Lucknow
A Hindu woman, identified as Priyanka, has alleged that she was deceived into marriage, forcibly converted to Islam, subjected to prolonged domestic abuse, and separated from her children by her husband in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The incident was reported on January 22, 2026.
According to the complaint, the woman met Mohammad Faiz Warsi during her college years in Lucknow. She stated that through emotional manipulation, sustained pressure, and promises of marriage, she was induced to convert from Hinduism to Islam on June 6, 2003. Following the conversion, her name was changed to Aliya Bano, and she married Warsi.
The woman alleged that after marriage, she was subjected to continuous physical violence, psychological abuse, and strict control by her husband and his family. She stated that her Hindu identity documents, educational certificates, and personal papers were confiscated, limiting her autonomy and legal recognition. She further alleged that she was repeatedly shifted between rented accommodations, compelled to work, and forced to hand over her earnings, with resistance resulting in beatings, threats, or confinement. She also claimed that she was locked in dark rooms on multiple occasions, causing severe mental trauma.
The complaint stated that the abuse continued even after the birth of her children. In May 2025, she alleged that she was brutally assaulted and forcibly expelled from the marital home. Following this, she claimed she went into hiding due to threats to her life. She further alleged that her children were taken away by her husband and his family, that she was prevented from meeting or communicating with them, and that their whereabouts were concealed.
Following the complaint, Lucknow Police registered an FIR and initiated an investigation. Authorities stated that they are examining allegations related to forced conversion, domestic cruelty, wrongful confinement, criminal intimidation, and separation of the children. Provisions of the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021, along with relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, have been applied. The investigation was ongoing at the time of reporting.
19. Idol of Maa Saraswati Desecrated Ahead of Saraswati Puja in Bangladesh’s Satkhira
An idol of Maa Saraswati was found desecrated in Satkhira district, Bangladesh, on January 22, 2026, a day before the Saraswati Puja festival scheduled for January 23.
According to media reports, the incident occurred in the Tetulia area, where unidentified individuals allegedly entered a Puja mandap around midnight and vandalised the idol. The idol was reportedly smashed into pieces. Local Hindu residents discovered the damage the next morning, leading to fear and tension in the area.
Police reached the spot after being informed and stated that an investigation had been initiated. Authorities said they were examining the circumstances of the incident and assured residents that action would be taken against those responsible. As of the latest reports, no arrests had been confirmed.
The incident took place amid heightened communal sensitivities in Bangladesh. Reports noted that it followed public opposition and hostile rhetoric by some groups against Devi Puja celebrations. The desecration occurred against a broader backdrop of recent attacks on Hindu homes, temples, and religious symbols in different parts of the country, which have raised concerns about the safety of the Hindu minority.
20. Hindu Man Dies in Police Custody in Narsingdi, Family Alleges Torture
A 27-year-old Hindu man, Badhan Taran, died in police custody in Narsingdi, Bangladesh, on January 22, 2026, under circumstances his family has described as suspicious. Badhan Taran, son of Shankar Taran and a resident of the Paschim Kandapara Seva Sangha area of Narsingdi city, was being held in custody when he died.
According to the victim’s family, his death was the result of severe torture while in custody. His wife told the media that she had visited him two days before his death and found him in good health, with discussions regarding his bail ongoing. She said that on the night of January 22, prison authorities informed her that he had fallen ill. When she reached the district hospital, she was told that her husband had already been brought in dead at around 11:30 pm, nearly 40 minutes before the hospital was officially informed.
She stated that his body bore visible signs of injury, including broken hands, bruises on both ears, bandaged legs, bloodshot eyes, and other marks that, according to her, could not have resulted from natural causes. Hospital doctors reportedly informed her that he had died at least an hour before being brought to the hospital. She demanded a thorough and impartial investigation and sought punishment for those responsible, describing the death as a planned killing.
21. Hindu Woman Alleges Deception, Assault, and Separation From Child After Marriage in Jabalpur
A Hindu woman from Tilhari in the Gorabazar police station area of Jabalpur reported that she was deceived into marriage by a man who concealed his identity and posed as a Hindu. The woman stated that the man introduced himself as Raj and maintained this identity while developing a relationship and persuading her to marry him.
According to her statement and police records, the accused was later identified as Arbaaz Ansari, a resident of Raza Chowk in the Adhartal area. The woman said she became suspicious about his behaviour and later checked documents that revealed his real name and religion. When she confronted him, she alleged that he threatened and intimidated her, assaulted her, and forcibly took away her three-month-old child.
The woman approached the Gorabazar police station and filed a complaint seeking legal action. Police said her statement was recorded, an investigation was initiated, and proceedings were started under provisions of the Religious Freedom Act and sections related to fraud. Following the complaint, the accused was arrested.
22. Hindu Minor Girl Abducted and Converted in Jacobabad, Pakistan
In Jacobabad, Sindh, Pakistan, a 17-year-old Hindu minor girl named Heer Rani, daughter of Harichand, was reported abducted and later presented as having converted to Islam and married to a Muslim man named Naseebullah Pathan, a resident of Quetta. Her family and local sources stated that she went missing from her home and was taken without consent, after which her religious identity was changed and she was renamed Fatima.
The family said that the abduction, conversion, and marriage were carried out under coercion and approached the police and relevant authorities seeking justice and protection for their minor daughter. The incident was stated to have taken place in violation of Sindh’s child protection laws, including the Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act, which prohibits marriage involving minors. The girl later told authorities that she had converted and married voluntarily, but her family rejected this, claiming such statements are often made under pressure, intimidation, or unlawful confinement, especially when the victim is a minor. The case was reported as sub judice.
The incident caused fear and distress within the local Hindu community, which viewed it as another instance of Hindu girls being targeted through abduction, forced religious conversion, and marriage. It was noted that similar cases had previously occurred in Sindh and Hyderabad involving minor Hindu girls Maria, Shardha Oad, Aneeta Thakur, and Teji Thakur, who were reportedly abducted, forcibly converted to Islam, and married to Muslim men, with allegations of threats, coercion, and, in one case, rape. These incidents were presented as part of a recurring pattern in which Hindu minority girls in Pakistan were targeted because of their faith, with existing legal safeguards failing to prevent such cases.
23. Indian Embassy in Croatia Defaced, National Flag Removed and Replaced With Khalistani Flag
The Indian Embassy in Zagreb, Croatia, was targeted in a late night act of trespass and vandalism on 22 January 2026, when intruders entered the mission premises, removed India’s national flag, and hoisted a Khalistani flag in its place. The embassy building, boundary wall, and official signage were defaced with spray painted slogans, including “Khalistan Zindabad, Hindustan Murdabad.”
The incident reportedly occurred around midnight and marked the first such security breach at the Indian mission in Croatia in several decades. Graffiti was found on the boundary wall and signboard, and the marking “26/01” was also painted, which was presented as a threat linked to India’s Republic Day. Visuals circulating on social media showed the Indian flag being taken down at night and replaced, along with extensive vandalism of the embassy premises.
The banned pro Khalistan group Sikhs for Justice claimed responsibility for the act. Its leader, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, released a video statement describing the incident as part of a broader campaign and framed it as a political message delivered on European soil. In the statement, he referred to past grievances and made remarks about targeting Indian embassies in the future.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs condemned the trespass and vandalism and said the matter was strongly taken up with Croatian authorities in both New Delhi and Zagreb. The ministry urged Croatian authorities to identify those responsible and ensure accountability for the illegal actions. The Indian Embassy also issued a statement stating that the act reflected the character and intent of those involved and called on local law enforcement agencies to take appropriate action.
24. Hindu Activist Attacked in Ujjain Over Opposition to Illegal Conversions and Participation in Saraswati Puja
A Hindu activist was brutally attacked by a group of Muslim men in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, on the evening of Thursday, 22 January 2026. The victim, Sohel Thakur, is a Bajrang Dal member and a full time worker of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad.
The incident took place near a hotel close to a Sangh office when Thakur had gone to the Malipura area for work. He was stopped by a group of 10 to 15 men from Madargarh and Qazi Mohalla, who began arguing with him. The confrontation soon escalated, and the group attacked him using rods and other weapons. Thakur sustained a severe head injury and was rushed to Ujjain District Hospital, where he was reported to be in critical condition at the time.
According to Thakur, he had been targeted because of his earlier involvement in opposing illegal conversion activities involving Hindu women and girls and for his participation in a Vasant Panchami Saraswati Puja programme held in his area a day earlier, on Wednesday, 21 January 2026. Speaking to news agency ANI, he said that he was sitting at a hotel near the Sangh office when the attackers approached and struck him on the forehead with a rod, causing him to become dizzy and lose consciousness.
Thakur stated that he had been on the radar of these individuals for some time due to his activism and that the attack was planned. He alleged that the attackers were involved in illegal activities, including drug trafficking and cow smuggling. He said the assailants fled when his brothers rushed to the spot.
January 23, 2026
25. Saraswati Puja Not Held at Tripura School, Sparking Tension Among Students and Guardians
Saraswati Puja celebrations were halted at a school in Tripura’s Unakoti district, triggering disappointment and tension among Hindu students and local residents. The incident occurred at Nalakata High School in Pecharthal, under the Kumarghat subdivision, where the institution remained closed on Friday, 23 January 2026, the day of the festival.
The school has a long-standing practice of observing Saraswati Puja every year. However, in 2026, the school authorities declared a holiday and did not organise the celebration. Hindu students said the decision was taken by the School Management Committee, which they claimed has a majority of non-Hindu members.
On the morning of the festival, students and their parents reached the school premises to participate in the Puja, only to find the gates locked. This led to widespread disappointment and anger among families, who said the festival holds cultural and emotional significance, especially for Hindu students.
Students and local residents stated that neither the School Management Committee nor the teaching staff made any effort to organise the Puja or hold discussions to find an alternative arrangement. They alleged that the committee is dominated by members from Christian, Chakma Buddhist, and Muslim communities, and that the decision to close the school deprived students of participating in an important cultural event.
26. Hindu Students Barred From Saraswati Puja at West Bengal School, Forced to Pray on Roadside
Hindu students were barred from performing Saraswati Puja at a Muslim-majority school in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district on Friday, 23 January 2026, and were compelled to conduct the ritual on a roadside after being denied entry to the school premises.
The incident took place at Moynagadi Free Primary School in the Barasat area. According to reports, Hindu students had earlier sought and received permission from school authorities to celebrate Basant Panchami and perform Saraswati Puja within the school. However, on the day of the festival, the school gates remained closed, and Hindu students were prevented from entering the premises.
It was stated that the permission was withdrawn on the grounds that more than 50 per cent of the school’s students belonged to the Muslim community. As a result, Hindu students alone were denied access, while the school remained shut to them for the puja.
A video circulated on social media showed police personnel stopping students from performing the ritual inside the school. Following this, the students arranged the Saraswati Puja on the footpath outside the school building.
In the video, a man identified as Pradip Chatterjee said authorities had informed them that the puja could not be conducted because Hindus were a minority in the school. He said the students were left with no option but to offer prayers on the roadside after being turned away.
27. Hindu Students Denied Permission to Celebrate Saraswati Puja at Missionary School in Tripura Despite Being Majority
Hindu students were denied permission to celebrate Saraswati Puja at Holy Cross Convent School in Sakhaibari, Dharmanagar, Tripura, on Friday, 23 January 2026, even though more than 70 per cent of the students enrolled at the institution belong to the Hindu community.
The issue began earlier in January when activists from the Vishwa Hindu Parishad approached the school administration on 16 January, seeking permission to observe Basant Panchami and perform Saraswati Puja on the school premises on behalf of Hindu students. The request was reiterated during a second visit on 22 January. The students and their families stated that the proposed celebration was meant to respect religious faith and cultural tradition and was not intended to create division within the school.
Despite these requests, the school administration refused to grant permission, effectively prohibiting Hindu students from performing Saraswati Puja or associated rituals on campus. The denial led to protests outside the school premises, with Vishwa Hindu Parishad members gathering in front of Holy Cross Convent School to demand that the festival be allowed within the institution.
28. Teacher Attends Saraswati Puja in Drunk State at Chhattisgarh Government School
In Surguja district of Chhattisgarh, a government teacher named Buddheshwar Das arrived in an inebriated state at a Saraswati Puja organised on Basant Panchami at Junapara Primary School in Gumgra. He came with folded hands, stated that he had come for Saraswati Puja, and offered a coconut while others were engaged in prayers. When a villager asked what he had consumed, he denied taking alcohol and claimed he had eaten dal and rice for lunch. People present recorded a video of his condition, which later went viral on social media.
According to local villagers, including Panchayat representatives, Buddheshwar Das was known to be a habitual alcoholic who frequently came to school intoxicated despite repeated warnings. During the Saraswati Puja on Friday, 23 January 2026, parents attending the event noticed his condition and recorded a video. When questioned on camera, he initially denied consuming alcohol, said he had eaten at the primary school, and hesitated to reveal his name. He gave conflicting statements about his posting, first saying he was posted in Pahargaon, Mainpat, and later in Gumgra Khurd, and named Vinod Gupta as the in-charge but refused to contact him, claiming he did not have his phone number.
After receiving information that the teacher had arrived at school after consuming alcohol, Sarpanch Rupmaniya Maravi, along with Panchayat representatives, reached the school. A Gram Sabha was convened, and a proposal was passed demanding the removal of teacher Buddheshwar Das from the school. Lakhanpur Block Education Officer D.K. Gupta stated that a video of the incident was received and the cluster in charge was directed to conduct an inquiry. The inquiry confirmed that the teacher had arrived at the school in an intoxicated state, and the report was forwarded to the Surguja District Education Officer with a recommendation for his suspension. A complaint in the case was filed, and the matter was recorded as an instance of attack on Hindu religious representations, breaking rules of worship, and defiling religious customs.
29. Saraswati Puja Disrupted by TMC Factional Clash in Cooch Behar
At Dinhata College in Cooch Behar district of West Bengal, a Saraswati Puja celebration was disrupted when a clash broke out between two factions of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) party on 23 January 2026. Hindu devotees who had gathered at the Saraswati Puja mandap were forced to flee for their safety as the college campus turned into a battleground during the infighting.
According to media reports, the Saraswati Puja mandap was abandoned following the outbreak of the factional fight. The police were later called to restore law and order, and the in-charge of Dinhata police station along with the Sub-Divisional Police Officer reached the campus to take stock of the situation. The incident was recorded as an attack on Hindu religious representations and defiling of religious customs, as the celebrations were disrupted and the sanctity of the festival was disturbed.
30. Saraswati Puja Disrupted After Temple Locked in North 24 Parganas
The celebration of Saraswati Puja was disrupted in Kamarhati city of West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district after a temple was locked, preventing devotees from offering prayers. The incident took place on Friday, 23 January 2026, amid infighting within the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).
One faction of the TMC locked the Belghadia Sarbajanin Sri Durga Chowk Society Mandir, where Saraswati Puja rituals were scheduled. As a result, local Hindu women were barred from worshipping Goddess Saraswati. The dispute remained unresolved, with the local TMC councillor reportedly unable to mediate a solution.
Police personnel were present but did not intervene, stating that they would not remove the lock unless the opposing TMC factions reached an agreement. This left devotees waiting outside the locked temple during the festival.
Speaking to the media, one local Hindu woman said the temple should remain a common place of worship and suggested a shared arrangement for access. Another woman stated that the temple did not belong to any individual and was meant for everyone.
31. Saraswati Puja Celebration Disrupted by Obscene Dance Inside Pandal in Surat
A Saraswati Puja celebration in Surat, Gujarat, was disrupted after an obscene dance performance took place inside a puja pandal, causing discomfort and outrage among devotees. The incident occurred on Friday, 23 January 2026, at Anand Park Society on Katargam Wade Road.
During the event, women were made to dance on stage to vulgar Bhojpuri and Hindi film songs inside the sacred pandal. Hindu families, elderly attendees, and women present at the celebration reported feeling embarrassed and disturbed, particularly as a large number of young children were also in attendance.
Videos of the performance circulated widely on social media, sparking strong reactions in the locality. Residents said the performance desecrated the sanctity of Saraswati Puja and hurt religious sentiments. Members of the Hindu community protested, accusing the organisers of promoting obscenity under the cover of a religious event and violating public decorum.
32. Saraswati Puja Disrupted After Man Abuses Hindu Deities Near Pandal in Chapra
Saraswati Puja celebrations were disrupted in Sonpur, Chapra district of Bihar, after an intoxicated man allegedly abused Goddess Saraswati and other Hindu deities near a puja pandal. The incident took place on Friday, 23 January 2026, near the Baba Hariharnath Temple, around 500 metres from the local police station.
The man, identified as Devnarayan Pandey, was reportedly drunk and smoking cigarettes near the pandal during the celebrations. He was seen making lewd and abusive remarks against Hindu deities and creating a disturbance in the vicinity of the religious gathering. When local residents tried to intervene and stop him, he continued hurling offensive remarks and abusing people present at the site.
A video of the incident circulated widely on social media, showing the man intoxicated, smoking near the pandal, and verbally abusing devotees and Hindu gods and goddesses. The footage led to widespread discussion and anger among local residents and members of the Panda (priests) community.
33. Saraswati Idol Desecrated on Puja Day in Gopalganj, Bangladesh
An idol of Hindu goddess Saraswati was desecrated in Muksudpur Upazila of Gopalganj district, Bangladesh, on Friday, 23 January 2026, coinciding with the observance of Saraswati Puja. The incident took place at a public puja pavilion in Paschim Ujan Kandani Para village under Ujani Union.
The desecration occurred after the completion of puja rituals late at night. Worshippers reportedly left the pavilion around midnight, following which unidentified individuals vandalised the idol by twisting the neck of the Saraswati murti and hanging its head. The damage was discovered the next morning, on 24 January, and local residents informed the police.
Muksudpur Police Station Officer-in-Charge Abdullah Al Mamun stated that CCTV cameras installed at the site had been removed prior to the vandalism, leaving no footage to identify those responsible. Senior police and administrative officials, including the Circle Assistant Superintendent of Police, the Assistant Commissioner (Land), members of intelligence agencies, and army personnel, visited the site after the incident came to light.
Police officials said efforts were underway to identify those involved and that the temple committee had been asked to file a formal complaint, following which a case would be registered. The incident drew concern among local residents, as it occurred on a day of religious significance for the Hindu community, when Goddess Saraswati is worshipped during one of the festival’s most sacred observances.
34. Hindu Students Threatened for Organising Saraswati Puja at Kolkata College
Hindu students at the government-sponsored Jogesh Chandra Chaudhuri College in South Kolkata were allegedly threatened for organising Saraswati Puja on Friday, 23 January 2026. The threat was attributed to All India Trinamool Congress leader Daud Alam Molla, a local Muslim politician.
The incident came to light after a female Hindu student shared details publicly, stating that Daud Alam Molla stood outside the college premises and issued threats aimed at stopping the Saraswati Puja celebrations. In a video that circulated widely, the student claimed that she was threatened with sexually explicit remarks directed at her lawyer if the puja was organised.
Saraswati Puja, observed on Vasant Panchami, is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and is traditionally organised by students in educational institutions. The alleged threats were made specifically in response to the students’ plans to hold the religious observance within the college.
The incident also drew attention due to a previous case in January 2025, when another Trinamool Congress-affiliated student leader was accused of threatening Hindu students over Saraswati Puja celebrations.
35. Hindu Man Burnt to Death in Narsingdi District of Bangladesh
A 23-year-old Hindu man was burnt to death in Narsingdi district of Bangladesh on Friday night, 23 January 2026. The victim, identified as Chanchal Bhowmik, also known as Tarun, was killed inside his own shop, where he usually slept at night.
The incident took place when an unidentified person allegedly shut the garage shutter from outside, poured petrol on Chanchal Bhowmik while he was asleep, and set him on fire. The attacker reportedly stood outside watching as the fire engulfed the shop before fleeing the scene. Local residents noticed the blaze and alerted the fire service, which took nearly an hour to bring the fire under control. After the flames were extinguished, Chanchal’s charred body was recovered from inside the garage.
Family members stated that the killing appeared premeditated and expressed suspicion that Chanchal was targeted due to religious hatred. Chanchal was the sole breadwinner of his family, supporting his ailing mother, disabled elder brother, and younger brother. His father had passed away earlier. Locals described him as a quiet individual with no known disputes.
The killing drew condemnation from Hindu community organisations. Manindra Kumar Nath, Acting General Secretary of the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, condemned the murder and demanded an impartial investigation and strict punishment for those responsible. Pradip Kanti Dey, President of the Bangladesh Hindu Youth Grand Alliance, said the incident reflected the fear and insecurity faced by the Hindu minority and called on authorities to ensure safety and justice for minority communities.
The murder occurred amid reports of continued attacks on Hindu individuals, homes, and religious sites in different parts of Bangladesh in recent months. Authorities have not yet identified the perpetrator, and the case remains under investigation.
36. Minor Hindu Girl Harassed and Pressured for Religious Conversion in Moradabad
A 16-year-old Hindu girl was allegedly forced to wear a burqa and subjected to threats and mental harassment by her Muslim classmates in the Bilari area of Moradabad district, Uttar Pradesh, on Friday, 23 January 2026. The incident took place during tuition classes held in Sahu Kunj Colony, where the girl was studying alongside other students.
The victim, a Class 12 student, was reportedly pressured over a period of time by five Muslim classmates aged between 15 and 17 to convert to Islam. The girls, identified as Alina, Malishka, Saviya, Riyasha, and Jahaura, allegedly compelled her to wear a burqa during tuition sessions and continued to press her for conversion. When she refused, she was allegedly threatened and mentally harassed, creating an atmosphere of intimidation.
The matter came to public attention after CCTV footage from the tuition premises showing the girl being made to wear a burqa circulated widely. Following this, the victim’s brother, Devesh Chaudhary, a resident of Abdullah Mohalla South in Bilari, lodged a complaint at the Bilari Police Station.
Police registered an FIR against the five students under Sections 3 and 5(1) of the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021. Officials stated that an investigation was initiated, the accused were questioned, and evidence was being collected, with further action to be taken based on the findings.
January 24, 2026
37. Bomb Attack Targets Hindu Devotees During Saraswati Puja Immersion in Jharkhand
On 24 January 2026, Hindu devotees performing the immersion of Saraswati Puja idols in Gohariyon village, Ward Number 14, under the Lodipur police station in Jharkhand, were injured in a bomb attack. The incident reportedly followed a minor dispute over playing music during the immersion procession.
Four people were injured in the attack. Neeraj Kumar, aged 22, sustained severe damage to his leg, Gautam Kumar, 25, suffered a serious back injury, Meghu Mandal, 55, had burns on his back and legs, and Chhotu Kumar, 18, sustained facial injuries. All were admitted to Mayaganj Hospital for medical treatment.
According to Gautam Kumar, the violence erupted after a disagreement over a disc jockey system being played during the immersion. During the course of events, two bombs were thrown, injuring him, his brother, and his uncle. Senior Superintendent of Police Pramod Kumar Yadav, along with other senior officers, visited the hospital to check on the injured and ensure they received proper treatment. A large police force, including the City Superintendent of Police Shailendra Singh and the Lodipur police station chief, was deployed to bring the situation under control, and authorities stated that strict action would be taken against those responsible.
38. Hindu Devotees Injured in Stone-Pelting During Saraswati Puja Immersion in Hazaribagh
On 24 January 2026, Hindu devotees participating in a Saraswati Puja immersion procession in Beltu village, Keredari block, Hazaribagh district, Jharkhand, were injured in a violent stone-pelting incident. The clash reportedly began after a dispute over playing music during the procession.
The violence occurred late at night while the devotees were taking the idol of Goddess Saraswati for immersion, passing through the stretch between Beltu Picket and Bazaar Tad. Several members of the Muslim community allegedly began pelting stones at the devotees, disrupting the procession and causing panic. Some devotees reportedly retaliated, which led to a violent clash between the two groups. More than a dozen people, including police personnel deployed to control the situation, sustained injuries.
The number of alleged perpetrators involved is reported to range from 10 to 100. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
39. Saraswati Puja Banned at School Following Teacher’s Objection in Katihar
On 24 January 2026, Saraswati Puja celebrations were prohibited at the upgraded middle school in Bindtoli, Katihar district, Bihar, after a teacher, Shahil Kumar, objected to students applying abir to him during the festival. Saraswati Puja has been an annual practice at the school under Sohtha Southern Panchayat in the Falaka police station area.
Following the objection, the school principal, Laxman Mandal, and staff decided to ban the celebration entirely for the year. The ban prevented students and devotees from performing rituals at the school, forcing some to travel to nearby locations to observe the festival.
The decision prompted protests near the school premises, leading to intervention by Falaka Police Station officer Ravi Kumar Rai and village representative Amit Gupta, who helped calm the crowd. Local representatives, including deputy head Pawan Kumar Singh and ward member Upendra Mandal, along with villagers, requested that the school ensure the proper observance of Saraswati Puja annually.
The principal acknowledged the handling of the matter and assured that formal worship of Goddess Saraswati would resume the following year. The ban affected the expression of religious practice within the school and drew attention to the disruption of a long-standing Hindu festival. The school authorities involved in the decision were identified as the principal and the teacher.
40. Saraswati Puja Disrupted in Hajipur After Police Intervention
On 24 January 2026, Saraswati Puja celebrations in Ward No. 7 of Teknari Panchayat, Hajipur, Vaishali district, Bihar, were disrupted when the local police station chief intervened during the aarti. Police ordered that the DJ be stopped, although committee members and devotees stated that no DJ was playing at the time. The intervention resulted in the aarti being halted, causing distress among attendees.
The disruption led to protests, with hundreds of villagers gathering at the pandal and surrounding police personnel. Villagers expressed anger at what they described as unnecessary interference in a religious ceremony and announced they would not proceed with the immersion of the Saraswati idol until their grievances were addressed. The police vehicle eventually left the scene after the situation escalated.
The incident involved the state authorities and was carried out by the police, with two to five officers present, all male, according to reports.
41. Hindu Devotees Attacked During Saraswati Puja in Kailashahar, Tripura
On 24 January 2026, Hindu devotees in Kailashahar, Tripura, were attacked during a Saraswati Puja procession in the Katal Dighirpar area. Around 16 Muslim youths armed with machetes and sticks attempted to disrupt the event, resulting in clashes and a breakdown of law and order in the area.
Bharatiya Janata Party Mandal president Pritam Ghosh reported that the group attacked devotees as soon as they arrived at the scene. Ghosh sustained injuries during the violence. The house of BJP youth wing district president Arup Dhar was vandalised, and an unofficial BJP office in Katal Dighirpar was set on fire. Police forces were deployed to contain the violence, with additional personnel stationed in the area to maintain control, according to Sub-Divisional Magistrate Rahul.
The attack occurred during the public celebration of a Hindu religious festival, targeting both the devotees and the procession itself. Reports indicate the incident involved organised, weapon-based intimidation rather than a spontaneous confrontation. Around 10 to 100 male perpetrators were involved, as stated in sources.
42. Idol of Goddess Saraswati Desecrated in Dibrugarh, Assam
On 24 January 2026, the day after Saraswati Puja, an idol of Goddess Saraswati was desecrated by unidentified miscreants in Dibrujan Jalan Nagar labour line, Dibrugarh, Assam. The festival, which honours the Hindu deity of knowledge, wisdom, and learning, had been celebrated the previous day with traditional rituals, including the placement of books and instruments before the idol for blessings.
Local Hindu residents expressed deep hurt over the incident, noting that such an act had not occurred in the area previously. They demanded strict action against those responsible, stating that appropriate punishment would deter future attacks.
The desecration of the idol, a sacred representation of the divine, is viewed as an attack on a core religious symbol and is considered religiously motivated. The timing, immediately following Saraswati Puja, indicates that the act was aimed at the Hindu community in connection with their festival, rather than being a random act of vandalism. The perpetrators remain unidentified.
January 25, 2026
43. Saraswati Puja Immersion Procession Attacked in Darbhanga, Bihar
On 25-26 January 2026, a Saraswati Puja idol immersion procession in Alinagar, Darbhanga, Bihar, was attacked by members of the Muslim community. The violence erupted after a dispute over the playing of “Jai Shri Ram” hymns on a DJ during the procession.
As the procession passed through Jayantipur village on 26 January, stone-pelting began, leaving three Hindu devotees injured and creating panic among participants. Eyewitnesses confirmed that the attack targeted the devotees and the religious procession itself, disrupting the ritual immersion of the idol of Goddess Saraswati, a core component of the festival.
Local Hindu community members reported that the dispute started a day earlier over the religious chants, while police initially suggested a non-religious trigger involving a motorcycle. Following the stone-pelting, heavy police presence was deployed, and authorities convened a peace committee to restore order. Video footage was examined to identify the culprits, and social media was monitored to prevent the spread of rumours.
44. Hindu Residents Targeted for Religious Conversion in Saharsa, Bihar
In Paswan Tola, Saharsa, Bihar, on 25 January 2026, a group of Christian missionaries led by Pastor Dharmendra Rai reportedly attempted to convert local Hindu residents by offering material inducements. According to reports, the missionaries approached poor and economically vulnerable families, offering cash of ₹50,000, refrigerators, household appliances, free medical treatment, and other benefits in exchange for conversion to Christianity.
The activities were brought to the attention of Bajrang Dal, which reached the locality and alerted local residents. A tense situation developed, prompting police intervention. Five individuals were involved in the incident, including three men and two women. The three men, including Pastor Dharmendra Rai, were arrested, while the two women managed to flee the scene. The police initiated an investigation to trace the absconding individuals and examine any wider network associated with the conversion activities.
Local authorities and police personnel were present at the site during the incident to manage the situation, and an investigation is ongoing. The case is under judicial consideration.
45. Hindu Devotees Attacked During Saraswati Puja Procession in Lohardaga, Jharkhand
In Baridih village under the Kudu police station area of Lohardaga, Jharkhand, Hindu devotees were reportedly attacked during the immersion of a Saraswati Puja procession on 25 January 2026. The incident occurred after the vehicle carrying the idol of Maa Saraswati slightly touched the roof of a nearby house belonging to a Muslim family.
Following the accidental contact, members of the household and their associates allegedly assaulted the vehicle driver. The situation quickly escalated into wider clashes, during which Hindu residents and their houses came under attack. Reports indicate that three people sustained injuries and were receiving treatment at a local hospital.
Police from Kudu police station, along with a bike squad from the Border Security Force, intervened to restore order. Authorities stated that additional forces were deployed and strict monitoring was put in place to prevent further escalation.
46. Muzaffarnagar: Cleric Apologises After Remarks on Hindu Schools Trigger Backlash
An incident was reported from Shahpur in Muzaffarnagar district, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday, 25 January 2026, after an Islamic cleric made objectionable remarks about Hindu schools during a public gathering. The remarks led to widespread backlash, police intervention, and a subsequent public apology by the cleric.
The statements were made by Maulana Mumsad at a gathering held at Madrasa Mahmoodia in Shahpur. During his address, he stated that Muslim children studying in Hindu schools became “Mushrik” (polytheists) and that their faith was in danger. He appealed to Muslim parents to remove their children from such schools. A video of the speech circulated widely on social media, following which the police took cognisance of the matter and initiated an investigation.
47. Ghazipur: Complaint Filed Over Alleged Conversion Activities Targeting Hindu Villagers
An incident was reported from Nasratpur village in Ghazipur district, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday, 25 January 2026, involving allegations of attempts to convert Hindu villagers to Christianity. A complaint was filed with the local police, following which a case was registered and an investigation initiated.
According to the complaint, Hindu villagers in Nasratpur were allegedly targeted through inducements and false promises. The activities were reported to have taken place regularly every Sunday between 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. Local residents were said to be hesitant to report the matter earlier due to fear.
48. Texas: Republican Senate Candidate Faces Backlash Over Remarks on Hindu Deity Idol
An incident involving remarks perceived as offensive to Hindu religious beliefs was reported from Texas, United States, on Sunday, 25 January 2026. The controversy arose after comments made on social media targeting a revered Hindu deity prompted objections from members of the Hindu community.
The remarks were made by Alexander Duncan, a Republican Senate candidate from Texas and a Christian by faith. On 25 January, Duncan posted on X a photograph of the 90 foot statue of Lord Hanuman located at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land, Texas. In the post, he described the statue as an abomination and referred to it as demonic and a false god, stating that such idols should be removed to preserve what he called a Christian nation and state.
This was not the first instance of similar remarks by Duncan. In September 2025, he had made comments referring to the same Hanuman statue as a false god. In November 2025, he also posted remarks criticising an idol of Lord Murugan, a Hindu deity, planned as part of a temple complex in Moncure, North Carolina. The current status of any official action in connection with the latest incident has not been disclosed.
The incidents reported during this week reveal a consistent pattern of targeted harassment and religious coercion. Vulnerable groups, particularly minors, have been disproportionately affected, reflecting both the manipulative strategies of predatory proselytisation and the urgent need for protective measures. These events highlight the ongoing challenges in safeguarding religious freedom and ensuring a safe environment for all communities.
