The first week of March 2026 witnessed a series of incidents targeting Hindus across different parts of India and neighbouring Bangladesh, raising concerns over religious tensions and the safety of cultural and religious practices. The developments ranged from controversial political remarks invoking Hindu deities to physical assaults during Holi celebrations, social media provocations, and disruptions of religious rituals. Observers noted that such incidents highlight the vulnerability of devotees during festivals and the growing challenges in protecting religious identity and traditions amid rising communal sensitivities.
As the week progressed, reports also emerged of temple vandalism, alleged predatory conversion attempts, and attacks linked to religious processions and online posts in several regions. Temples were reportedly desecrated in parts of Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, while incidents targeting Hindus were also reported in districts of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, cases of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, including assaults in areas such as Cox’s Bazar and Comilla, drew attention to the broader regional concerns regarding the safety of minority Hindu communities.
All the detailed incidents from March 2 to March 8, 2026, are given below.
March 02, 2026
1. Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi’s Remarks on Hindu Deities During Event
On 2 March 2026, during a political training programme in Anantagiri, Telangana, Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi made remarks comparing Hindu deities with political parties, which later drew criticism from political opponents and sections of the public.
The remarks were delivered at the conclusion of a 10-day training programme for District Congress Committee presidents. Addressing party leaders, Gandhi described Lord Shiva as representing humility, balance and restraint, stating that these qualities should guide the Congress party. In contrast, he compared the Bharatiya Janata Party with Lord Vishnu, alleging that the party symbolised power, grandeur, authority and dominance.
The comments were subsequently reported and circulated across media platforms. Critics argued that invoking sacred Hindu deities in partisan political comparisons was inappropriate and disrespectful, as it placed religious symbols within a political narrative.
Among those criticising the statement was Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy, who publicly condemned the remarks and accused Gandhi of attempting to create divisions among Hindu devotees. The criticism emerged largely from political opponents and commentators who questioned the use of religious symbolism in party messaging.
A similar controversy involving Gandhi had occurred earlier in July 2024 during his first address as Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. During that speech, he displayed an image of Lord Shiva while criticising political opponents and stated that those who call themselves Hindus speak about violence, hatred and lies. The act was objected to by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha for violating parliamentary rules that prohibit displaying placards in the House. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah had demanded an apology over the remarks at the time.
No police or administrative action was reported in connection with the 2 March 2026 incident, as the remarks were made during a political event. However, the episode sparked debate in media and political circles regarding the use of religious references in political discourse and the sensitivities associated with invoking revered figures in partisan contexts.
2. Premature Burning of Holika Pyre Disrupts Ritual in Rampur Village
An incident during preparations for the Holika Dahan ritual led to disruption in Bajidpur village of Rampur on 2 March 2026, when a youth allegedly set fire to the ceremonial pyre before the scheduled time.
According to sources, hundreds of Hindu families, including women and children, had gathered in the village to observe the annual Holika Dahan ceremony ahead of the festival of Holi. Devotees had assembled for rituals and pradakshina around the pyre, which was to be lit only after the conclusion of a lunar eclipse period that was considered inauspicious.
As per reports, a Muslim youth deliberately ignited the Holika pyre during the inauspicious period before the designated muhurat. The act created alarm among those present and disrupted the preparations for the ritual.
3. Social Media Video on Holi by Patna Resident Sparks Controversy
A social media video posted on 2 March 2026 by a woman from Patna drew criticism after she made remarks about the Hindu festival of Holi and its associated ritual of Holika Dahan.
According to sources, the woman, identified as Kavita Ambedkar, who describes herself as a Buddhist and follower of Ambedkarite ideology, uploaded a video on her Facebook account discussing the origins of the festival. In the video, she urged members of the Dalit community not to celebrate Holi and presented an alternative narrative about the story associated with Holika Dahan.
As per reports, she claimed that Holika was a Dalit woman who was raped and burned by Aryas, a term she used to refer to Hindus. She further alleged that Prahlada had been made a gambler and alcoholic by Aryas and stated that the festival commemorated the alleged injustice against Holika. The video circulated online and drew reactions from several social media users.
4. Holika Dahan Ritual Disrupted After Clash in Rajkot Locality
An incident during the Holika Dahan ceremony led to a disturbance in Bhagwatipara locality of Rajkot on 2 March 2026, when a group confrontation disrupted the ritual being performed by local Hindu residents.
According to sources, Hindu families, including women and children, had gathered to observe the Holika Dahan ritual ahead of the festival of Holi. Devotees were performing puja and pradakshina around the ceremonial pyre when two local men arrived on a motorcycle and allegedly began performing stunts near the gathering, causing alarm among those present.
Local residents objected to the activity and asked the two men to leave. The individuals reportedly left the area but later returned with a group carrying objects such as pipes. A confrontation then broke out between the group and some of the devotees present at the ritual site.
During the altercation, the ceremony was disrupted and the gathering was forced to halt the ritual. Reports also stated that women present at the site were verbally abused during the clash. Videos of the incident later circulated online, showing the disruption during the religious observance.
5. Temple Looted and Set on Fire in Bangladesh’s Feni District
A Hindu temple in Tulatuli Bazar area of Daganbhuiyan in Feni District was looted and set on fire by unidentified miscreants in the early hours of 2 March 2026, according to sources.
The incident occurred after 2.00 am when the attackers allegedly broke the lock of the iron gate of a family temple located at the residence of Manoranjan Doctor near a BRAC office in the locality. After entering the premises, the miscreants reportedly looted valuables kept inside the temple before setting the structure on fire.
Temple and house owners Narayan Chandra Nath and Shyamal Chandra Nath said the fire and looting caused damage estimated at around Tk 200,000. Most of the belongings inside the temple were reportedly destroyed in the blaze. Family members expressed concern about their safety following the incident.
6. Hindu Youths Assaulted During Holi Celebration in Dehradun
An incident of assault was reported in Dehradun on 2 March 2026, where two Hindu youths were attacked by a group following a dispute that occurred while they were playing Holi near a local shrine.
According to sources, Chirag Anand and his friend Anand were playing with water balloons near RGM Plaza on Chakrata Road during celebrations of Holi. During the activity, a water-filled balloon reportedly became caught on a wire and burst, splashing water onto the clothes of a local youth identified as Sahil Dhiman.
Reports state that Dhiman subsequently called several associates, including Mohammad Salman, Deepak and Intaqab, after which a group of men arrived at the location. The group allegedly assaulted Chirag Anand with sticks, striking him on the head and back. When he attempted to flee, stones and bricks were reportedly thrown at him. Chirag Anand later took shelter in an alley near a mazaar in the area.
According to the complaint filed by Anand, the group later went to his residence in Mazar Wali Gali in Luniya Mohalla, where they allegedly pushed and verbally abused his mother, Rajni Anand.
Following the incident, a formal complaint was lodged with the police. City Kotwal Hariom Chauhan stated that a case had been registered against Sahil Dhiman, Mohammad Salman, Deepak, Intaqab and around 20 other individuals based on the complaint. Authorities said the matter was under investigation.
7. Temple Vandalism Reported in Alwar After Shivling Found Damaged
An incident of vandalism at a Hindu temple was reported in the Aravali Vihar police station area of Alwar on 2 March 2026, after devotees discovered damage to idols inside the shrine and a dead calf near the premises.
According to sources, the temple is located near Bakhreda in the Aravali Vihar locality, close to a cemetery. When devotees arrived at the temple in the morning, they found the Shivling installed inside the temple damaged, with stones and debris scattered around the premises. Other idols in the temple were also reported to have been harmed.
A short distance away from the temple, a calf was found dead, which heightened concern among local residents. People from the surrounding colony gathered at the site and expressed anger over the incident.
Residents stated that a similar incident had been noticed a few days earlier when the neck of a Nandi idol and the trunk of a Lord Ganesha idol were found damaged. At that time, the damage was attributed to the presence of monkeys in the area. However, in the present case, the complete breakage of the Shivling led residents to suspect deliberate vandalism.
March 03, 2026
8. Hindus Injured in Stone-Pelting Incident Ahead of Holi in Tonk
An incident of violence occurred in Tonk on the night of 3 March 2026 when a dispute in the Sanghpura locality, under the Old Tonk police station area, escalated into stone-pelting and physical assault.
The confrontation began after members of a Muslim family returned home following prayers and entered into a verbal altercation with local Hindus. The dispute reportedly stemmed from a longstanding rivalry in the neighbourhood. The argument soon intensified, and the situation turned violent, resulting in clashes and stone-throwing between the two groups.
During the incident, a Hindu father and his daughter sustained injuries. Both were taken to Saadat Hospital in Tonk for treatment, where local residents gathered after learning about the attack.
9. Hindu Youth Assaulted Over Social Media Post in Gangavathi
A Hindu youth was assaulted by a group of men in Gangavathi on the night of 3 March 2026 following a dispute over a social media post related to Ali Khamenei.
The victim, Chandrashekhar, who runs a dry fruit shop in the town, had shared an update on his Instagram story stating that the Iranian Supreme Leader had reportedly been killed in missile strikes carried out by the United States and Israel. The post angered a group of local Muslim youths, leading to hostility against him.
Later that evening, a group of around five to six men entered Chandrashekhar’s shop while he was working there. They surrounded him, verbally abused him over the post, and accused him of hurting religious sentiments. The confrontation quickly escalated into violence, with the group physically assaulting him inside the shop.
During the attack, the assailants also issued threats, warning Chandrashekhar that they would enter his house and harm him and his family if he continued posting similar content online.
10. Derogatory Remarks on Holi Spark Outrage in Buxar
A controversy erupted in Buxar after a man named Surendra Kumar made derogatory remarks about the Hindu festival of Holi in a video that circulated widely on social media on 3 March 2026.
In the video, Surendra Kumar described Holika Dahan as a “dark day” for the Bahujan community and called on Dalits to observe it as a “black day.” He also presented a fabricated narrative claiming that Holika was a Dalit woman who was raped and burned by “Manuvadis,” a term he used for Hindus. Through these statements, he alleged that Hindus celebrate Holi despite what he portrayed as violence against women.
The remarks triggered strong reactions from members of the Hindu community. Sanjeev, a Hindu activist associated with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, shared the video on social media and condemned the statements, saying they insulted Hindu religious traditions and distorted the story associated with Holika Dahan.
11. Administration Restricts Holi Celebrations with Colours Inside Tekri Mata Temple in Dewas
A controversy arose in Dewas after the local administration restricted the use of colours during Holi within the premises of the Tekri Mata Temple.
The temple, situated on Tekri Hill, is a revered shrine dedicated to Goddess Tulja Bhavani and Goddess Chamunda. Traditionally, devotees have celebrated Holi with colours within the temple premises. However, in 2026, the administration banned such celebrations within the temple compound. The shrine is managed by the Dewas Tekri Temple Trust, which operates under the district administration’s oversight.
Following the restriction, activists from several Hindu organisations gathered at the hill to protest the decision. They argued that Holi had been celebrated there with colours for many years and that playing with colours formed an integral part of the festival’s religious traditions. During the protest, some activists removed a sign warning that action would be taken against anyone playing Holi within the temple premises.
March 04, 2026
12. Armed Motorcycle Ride During Holi Sparks Concern in Sitapur
An incident that drew public attention occurred in Sitapur during Holi celebrations, when two men were seen moving through a locality carrying iron rods, raising concerns among residents.
The episode took place in the Sadar area under the jurisdiction of the City Kotwali police station during the festival period, which coincided with the Islamic month of Ramadan. A video that circulated on social media showed two Muslim youths, identified as Salman and Shoaib, riding a motorcycle on a public road while holding iron rods.
At the time, residents in the area were participating in Holi celebrations and Rangotsav festivities. The two men were seen moving through the streets with rods in hand, creating unease among locals. Bystanders recorded the scene on their mobile phones, and the footage soon spread widely across social media platforms.
13. Hindu Youth Stabbed to Death Following Dispute in Baghpat
A Hindu youth was killed after a violent altercation in Baghpat on 4 March 2026. The incident took place in Titroda village and resulted in the death of Amrit Sharma.
Amrit Sharma visited a chicken shop owned by Sajid after being invited by his acquaintance, Sameer, to a Holi gathering. While he was at the shop, an argument broke out between him and several people present.
During the altercation, a group of men attacked Sharma with knives and stabbed him multiple times in the chest. The injuries proved fatal, as the wounds affected his heart, stomach, and waist. He died at the scene due to severe blood loss.
The individuals accused in the attack were identified as Suhail, Anas, Shaukeen, and Chinku. Police teams reached the location after receiving information about the incident and sent the body for post-mortem examination.
14. Hindu Man Dies After Assault During Holi Celebrations in Cachar
A Hindu man died after sustaining severe injuries in an assault during Holi celebrations in Cachar. The victim, Sajan Deb, was a resident of Rongpur in the district.
The incident occurred in the Rongpur locality during Holi festivities when Sajan Deb was present in the area. During the celebrations, a group of individuals allegedly attacked him, causing serious injuries that led him to collapse at the scene.
Residents informed his family about the assault. He was then taken in critical condition to Silchar Medical College and Hospital for treatment.
Despite receiving medical care, his condition remained critical. After battling his injuries for several days, Sajan Deb succumbed to the trauma four days later while undergoing treatment at the hospital.
15. Stone Pelting Disrupts Holi Celebrations in Munger
Holi celebrations in Munger were disrupted on 4 March 2026 after an incident of stone pelting during festivities in the Jamalpur area of the district.
The episode occurred near the railway path connecting Sadar Bazaar and Rampur Colony, where residents had gathered to celebrate the festival by applying colours and gulal. During the celebrations, a dispute reportedly arose over the application of colour, which soon escalated into a confrontation.
Amid the altercation, a group of local Muslim men allegedly began pelting stones at Hindus who were participating in the Holi celebrations. The sudden violence caused panic among those present and forced the gathering to disperse. One Hindu man sustained serious injuries during the stone pelting, while several others suffered minor bruises and cuts. Women and children present at the site ran for safety as the situation deteriorated.
16. Attempt to Run Over Students During Holi Triggers Clash at Ratlam Medical College
An incident during Holi celebrations at Dr Laxmi Narayan Pandey Medical College in Ratlam led to a clash between students on 4 March 2026 after a man allegedly attempted to drive his car through a group celebrating the festival.
Around 4 pm, Hindu students were playing Holi inside the medical college campus when Dr Rajat Ali Khan, a resident of Jaipur, arrived in a car with several companions. Students celebrating the festival asked him to take another route. After stopping the vehicle, an argument broke out between Rajat Ali Khan and the students.
During the altercation, Rajat Ali Khan allegedly began driving forward despite students attempting to stop the car. Witnesses stated that he accelerated the vehicle at high speed toward the group, prompting some students to throw stones in an attempt to halt the car. The driver then fled the spot
17. Article on Holi by Al Jazeera Draws Criticism Over Portrayal of Hindu Festival
An article published on 4 March 2026 by the Qatar-based media outlet Al Jazeera generated criticism after it presented a critical portrayal of the Hindu festival of Holi. The piece, titled “The Dark Side of Holi,” was written by journalist Vidya Krishnan and appeared on the day the festival was being celebrated.
The article described Holi as a festival associated with harassment of women and characterised it as regressive and misogynistic. It stated that the celebration had become a day when women prepare themselves for harassment during public festivities.
In discussing the festival’s mythology, the article referred to the story associated with Hiranyakashipu, Prahlada and Holika. It recounted the narrative of Prahlada’s devotion to Lord Vishnu and the episode in which Holika sits with him on a pyre. The article argued that the story reflects patriarchal ideas and suggested that Holika could be interpreted as a figure representing resistance.
The article also referred to allegations of harassment and violence against women during Holi celebrations and cited past claims that have circulated in public discussions about the festival.
18. Hindu Family Leaves Village After Harassment and Fear from Muslims
A Hindu family from Mohammadpur village in Lakhimpur Kheri left their home after alleging repeated harassment and violence by neighbours, along with incidents involving the desecration of a local temple.
The victim, Pradeep Verma, stated that his neighbour Ismail Ali and members of his household had repeatedly created disturbances and targeted the family and their place of worship. According to the complaint, pieces of meat and animal bones were thrown into a nearby Shiva Temple as well as into a well located in front of the family’s residence, causing distress and tension in the locality.
The situation escalated on 4 March 2026 when pieces of meat and bones were again allegedly thrown into the temple premises. When Pradeep Verma objected to the act, a confrontation took place between him and members of the neighbouring household, including Warish Ali, Tahban Ali and Ishtiaq. During the altercation, Pradeep Verma sustained a head injury. Two women from his family, Renu Verma and Kalavati, were also injured when they intervened.
19. Hindu Woman Allegedly Harassed, Threatened by Muslim Men to Convert in Panipat
A 22-year-old Hindu woman in Panipat filed a police complaint alleging harassment, threats and blackmail by three Muslim men who, she said, pressured her to convert to Islam.
The incident was reported from the Sanauli police station area. According to the complaint, the woman, who works as a labourer in agricultural fields in a village under Sanauli, alleged that three men identified as Munshad, Ankur and Aman repeatedly followed and harassed her while she went to work.
In her written complaint to the Sanauli Police Station, the woman stated that the accused pressured her to speak with them on the phone. She alleged that when she refused, they threatened to circulate old photos, videos and recordings related to her. The complaint further stated that the men threatened to harm her and her family members if she did not comply with their demands.
The victim also alleged that the accused pressured her to convert to Islam and warned her of serious consequences if she refused. The matter came to light after she approached the police seeking protection and legal action.
20. Hindu Families Attacked by Muslims During Holi Celebrations in Barabanki
Several Hindu residents were injured after a clash broke out during Holi celebrations in Tikaria village of Barabanki on 4 March 2026.
The incident occurred in the area under the Deva Police Station when Hindu families and youths were playing with gulal in the village lanes as part of Holi festivities. According to accounts from the spot, a dispute arose between Hindu residents celebrating the festival and local Muslim residents, which soon escalated into violence.
Members of the Muslim group allegedly attacked the Hindu residents using sticks, batons and iron rods. In the assault, eleven Hindus sustained injuries. Reports also indicated that eight individuals from the Muslim side were injured during the subsequent clash.
One of the injured residents, Awadesh, stated that when male members of his family were not present at home, several men entered the house and assaulted his relatives. When he and others tried to intervene and protect the family, they were beaten. Awadesh alleged that four men held him and attacked him with a knife during the confrontation.
21. Hindu Youths Attacked by Muslims After Holi Colours Fell on Passerby in Lucknow
A clash broke out during Holi celebrations in Lucknow after a group of Hindu youths were attacked following a dispute over gulal near a temple.
The incident occurred on 4 March 2026 near the Prabha Devi Temple where Hindu youths were celebrating Holi by playing with colours. According to reports, gulal thrown during the festivities accidentally fell on a Muslim passerby, which led to an argument between the two sides.
The disagreement soon escalated into violence when members of the Muslim group allegedly attacked the youths. People were seen hitting each other, and the confrontation later turned into stone pelting between the groups. The incident was captured on video and circulated widely on social media, showing men engaged in a scuffle outside the temple premises.
Local residents expressed concern over the disturbance during the festival near a religious site. Police officials later confirmed that they had begun examining the viral footage to identify those involved in the clash.
22. Hindu Youth Assaulted by Muslim Men After Holi Colour Incident in Etah
A 22-year-old Hindu youth was seriously injured after he was allegedly assaulted by three men following a dispute during Holi celebrations in Etah.
According to the complaint, the incident occurred on the evening of 4 March 2026 in Mohalla Qazi locality when Akash, son of Vinod, was celebrating Holi with other youths in the area. During the celebrations, coloured powder accidentally fell on three men identified as Arbaaz, Shahbaz and Mustafa, who were passing through the locality.
The accused allegedly reacted by verbally abusing Akash and hurling caste related slurs at him and his family members. When he objected to the abuse, the three men allegedly threw him to the ground and began beating him with sticks. During the assault, Arbaaz reportedly struck Akash on the head with the butt of a pistol, causing severe injuries to his head and nose.
23. Hindu Temple Idols Vandalised by Man in Sri Sathya Sai District
An incident of vandalism was reported at a Hindu temple in Kummarollapalli village under Kadiri after a man allegedly damaged sacred idols inside the premises.
The incident took place on the night of 4 March 2026 at an ancient Sri Rama Temple. According to police, a 34 year old man identified as Kunchapu Venkatesh, a resident of Murthipalli village in Kadiri mandal, vandalised cement idols of Lord Hanuman and Garutmanta located within the temple premises around 10:30 pm.
The incident triggered protests among local residents after the damage to the idols came to light. Following complaints from villagers, police initiated an investigation into the matter.
Officials later arrested the accused on 6 March 2026. During interrogation, Venkatesh told police that he had earlier undertaken work related to the construction of the temple gopuram and arch under a contract with the temple trustees. He claimed that after completing part of the work, the remaining construction was assigned to another contractor without settling his dues.
24. Hindu Man Beaten to Death Following Dispute During Holi Celebrations in Delhi
A 26-year-old Hindu man was beaten to death in the Uttam Nagar area of Delhi following a dispute that reportedly began during Holi celebrations in the Hastal Resettlement Colony on 4 March 2026.
The victim, identified as Tarun, lived with his family in Uttam Nagar and was pursuing a digital marketing course. According to his family members, an 11-year-old girl from the family was playing Holi on the rooftop of their house. During the celebrations, she threw a water-filled balloon towards her father standing below. The balloon fell onto the road, and the water accidentally splashed on a Muslim woman from a neighbouring family.
Family members stated that they apologised immediately after the incident, but the woman allegedly called her relatives, leading to an argument between the two sides. About an hour later, when Tarun was returning home on his motorcycle with a friend after participating in Holi festivities, a group of around 15 to 20 people reportedly stopped him on the way.
According to the family, the group attacked him with iron rods, bricks, stones and other objects. Tarun was taken to a hospital after the assault, where he later died during treatment. His grandfather, Man Singh, said the attackers beat him severely and that while he was lying on the road, a large stone was thrown onto his chest.
Police arrested four individuals in connection with the incident and also detained one minor. Authorities stated that Tarun lived with his parents and two elder siblings, and that his father, Nem Chand, is originally from Rajasthan. Eyewitnesses further alleged that some of the accused entered the victim’s house and vandalised property during the incident.
Communal tension was reported in the area following the assault, and additional police forces were deployed as a precaution while the investigation continued.
25. Hindu Dalit Couple Assaulted While Defending Migrant Workers During Holi Celebrations in Mohali
An incident of violence was reported in Matour village market in Mohali on 4 March 2026, where a Hindu Dalit activist and his wife were allegedly assaulted after he intervened to defend migrant workers celebrating Holi.
The victim, identified as Rajesh Valmiki Chouhan, a Valmiki community activist, reportedly witnessed a group of men attacking Hindu migrant workers from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar who were celebrating Holi in the local market area. According to statements shared by Chouhan, around 15 to 16 men were involved in the assault, and one of them was identified as a Sikh.
When Chouhan objected to the alleged attack on the migrant workers, the group reportedly turned on him and began beating him. He stated that the attackers assaulted him severely and snatched ₹5,000 in cash along with his mobile phone. During the incident, his wife was also manhandled when she tried to intervene and protect him.
Chouhan later shared videos on social media showing his injuries and describing the sequence of events. In his statement, he said that a group of men had begun beating and abusing the migrant workers, referring to them as “UP Bihar wale bhaiye”. According to him, the violence escalated after he protested against the assault.
26. Hindu Man and His Mother Assaulted While Preparing Temple for Holi in Mirzapur
A Hindu man and his elderly mother were injured after being attacked while cleaning a temple ahead of Holi celebrations in Mirzapur on 4 March 2026. The incident took place in Raipur village under the jurisdiction of Vindhyachal Kotwali.
The victims were identified as Anil Kumar Gupta, a 40-year-old resident of the village, and his mother Budhni Devi. According to the complaint, Anil Kumar Gupta was clearing bushes around an ancient temple in Sarroin Babu Majra area in preparation for Holi when four men allegedly attacked him with bricks, stones and rods. Budhni Devi, aged around 60, was injured on the head when she attempted to intervene during the assault.
Police personnel reached the spot after receiving information about the incident and shifted both injured individuals to the Community Health Centre in Vindhyachal. Due to the seriousness of their injuries, they were later referred to a divisional hospital for further treatment.
Based on the complaint filed by the victims, police registered a case under sections related to assault and criminal intimidation. The accused were identified as Angoor Ali, Hasmat Ali, Saddam Ali and Naushad Ali, all residents of Babu Sarroin village. Police later arrested the named individuals.
27. Hindu Holi Celebration Disrupted and Devotees Attacked in London
An incident of violence was reported during a Holi celebration in the Harrow area of London on 4 March 2026, where Hindu families, including women and children, were allegedly attacked while participating in a religious gathering.
The event was a Holika Dahan programme organised by the International Siddhashram Shakti Kendra and had been conducted with prior permission from the local council. According to reports, hundreds of devotees had gathered for the celebration when a group of men reportedly arrived from a nearby mosque and disrupted the event. Witnesses stated that the group pushed over sound system speakers and began intimidating those present, creating panic among participants.
Reports further stated that the individuals initially left the scene but returned shortly afterwards with around 20 additional men. The group allegedly launched another attack on the gathering, causing further fear and chaos among the devotees.
28. Derogatory Remarks Targeting Holi Festival Circulate on Social Media
A video containing derogatory remarks about the Hindu festival of Holi circulated widely on social media on 4 March 2026, drawing criticism and objections from members of the Hindu community.
According to reports, the video featured a man described as an Ambedkarite making objectionable comments about Holi while dressed in police-style attire. A woman was seen standing beside him, holding a photograph of B. R. Ambedkar. In the video, the man made a remark dismissing Holi and stating that they would instead celebrate 14 April in their own way, referring to Ambedkar Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Ambedkar.
The video was shared across several social media platforms and gained significant attention online. One account named Treeni on the platform X (Twitter) posted the clip and commented on the issue, questioning the neutrality of institutions when individuals associated with them allegedly make remarks against Hindu festivals.
29. Hindu Men Celebrating Holi Brutally Attacked by Unidentified Assailants in Uttarakhand
A group of Hindu men celebrating the festival of Holi were brutally attacked by unidentified assailants in Rudrapur town of Udham Singh Nagar district in Uttarakhand on 4 March 2026. The incident occurred in the Transit Camp area near Awas Nagar and left several people injured, creating tension and fear among residents.
According to information gathered from the locality, the victims were celebrating Holi outside their office in the Awas Vikas area, playing with colours and engaging in festive activities. During the celebrations, a few unidentified men arrived on motorcycles and suddenly launched an attack on the group without any prior argument or confrontation.
One of the victims, Himanshu Arora, sustained serious injuries after the attackers struck him on the head with a liquor bottle. He was immediately rushed to the district hospital, where doctors treated him. His condition was reported to be stable after receiving medical attention.
30. Hindu Community Attacked and Stone-Pelted by Muslim Mob During Holi Celebrations in Uttar Pradesh
Tension erupted in Mau Rasulpur village of Shahjahanpur district in Uttar Pradesh after members of the Hindu community were allegedly attacked and stone-pelted by a Muslim mob following a dispute during celebrations of the Hindu festival Holi on 4 March 2026.
According to local accounts, the incident began when a Hindu youth threw colour on a Muslim man while celebrating Holi, which led to a minor argument between individuals from both communities. Police reportedly intervened soon after the dispute and counselled both sides, restoring calm in the village for the time being.
However, tensions escalated the following day when a large group of Muslim men allegedly gathered and moved towards the Hindu locality in the village. The confrontation soon turned violent, with members of the mob reportedly attacking the Hindu side and pelting stones. Large groups from both communities became involved in the clash, and lathi attacks and heavy stone pelting were reported during the violence.
Following a complaint filed by a local resident, Divyanshu, police registered a case against several individuals identified as Zayed Ali, Shaheen Ali, Aqeel Ahmed, Azim, Sohail, Amir, Mahku and Hasrath, along with around one hundred unidentified persons.
March 05, 2026
31. Hindu Families Attacked in Gaya Over Minor Ball Incident
In Gaya, Bihar, multiple Hindu families were targeted, stoned, and had their homes vandalised following a minor incident during a children’s game on 5 March 2026. The conflict began when a ball played by Hindu children accidentally touched a Muslim man passing through the locality, leading to a verbal dispute that quickly escalated.
Soon after, a group of Muslim men gathered and began pelting stones at Hindu residents and their houses. The attack caused panic in the neighbourhood, forcing families to take shelter indoors. During the stone pelting, several residents sustained injuries. Among the injured were 21-year-old pregnant Lalita Devi, who suffered serious injuries, 60-year-old Sindhu Devi, and Vinod Sao. All injured were admitted to Belaganj Community Health Centre, with Sindhu Devi later referred to a hospital in Gaya for further treatment.
Local residents noted that tensions had been simmering for several days. Around a week prior, during an Akhand Kirtan in the village, members of the Muslim community had prevented Hindus from carrying the ritual Kalash procession, contributing to an atmosphere of hostility. The minor ball incident reignited these tensions, resulting in the organised attack.
32. Hindu Woman Pressured to Convert and Wear Burqa in Hubballi
In Hubballi, Karnataka, a Hindu woman was lured into a relationship by a Muslim man with promises of marriage and later pressured to convert to Islam and wear a burqa before any wedding took place. The incident came to light on 5 March 2026, when the woman shared her experience at a press conference addressing patterns of religiously motivated targeting of Hindu women.
According to her account, the relationship initially appeared genuine, with assurances that her Hindu faith would be respected and that no conversion or change in attire would be required. These promises were later broken, as the man began coercing her to adopt Islam and wear a burqa. The woman eventually ended the relationship after realizing the manipulation.
The case illustrates a pattern of predatory targeting, where Hindu women are emotionally manipulated into relationships and pressured to abandon their religious identity. The coercion to convert and adopt Islamic clothing directly challenged her personal freedoms and faith, representing a deliberate assault on her Hindu identity.
Victim details indicate one adult Hindu woman affected, with no fatalities reported. The perpetrator is a male Muslim extremist. The case has been documented under crimes against women in relationships, including grooming and forced conversion before marriage, with additional emphasis on coercion to wear hijab.
33. Tribal Hindu Villagers Pressured to Convert by American Missionaries in Depalpur
In Depalpur, Madhya Pradesh, tribal Hindu villagers were targeted by American Christian missionaries who attempted to induce them to convert to Christianity on 5 March 2026. The missionaries, identified as Adam and Evan, approached local families with inducements, including promises of material assistance, and engaged them in discussions aimed at persuading them to adopt the Christian faith.
Adam, accompanied by a local translator named Sunil, met with members of the Bhil tribal community and encouraged conversion through direct and remote interactions. Four days later, Evan also arrived in Depalpur, participating in conversion discussions alongside Adam via video call. Hindu Jagran Manch activists intervened after being alerted by local residents, taking Sunil to the police station and filing a formal complaint. Audio recordings of conversations indicating inducements and persuasion attempts were reportedly submitted to authorities.
Local police confirmed that Adam had entered India on a tourist visa and had been seeking information about the tribal community. An inquiry has been initiated to investigate the circumstances and the reported attempts at conversion.
34. Hindu Youths Attacked by Muslim Extremists During Holi in Chandauli
In Dudhari-Tenduhan village, Chandauli district, Uttar Pradesh, a group of Hindu youths were brutally attacked on 5 March 2026 while celebrating the festival of Holi. The incident began when colours from the celebrations were splashed on a Muslim man named Khurshid, who was travelling in an e-rickshaw. This led to a dispute that quickly escalated as Khurshid called other men from his village.
The assault involved sticks, hockey sticks, and sharp weapons, resulting in multiple injuries. Two Hindu men, Shashi Prakash and Chandan, sustained serious injuries and were admitted to the district hospital. Other injured individuals were treated at the District Joint Hospital. During the attack, members of the Muslim group also entered the home of a Hindu villager and carried out a violent assault.
Police from Syedaraja station arrived at the scene, brought the situation under control, and registered a case against four Muslim men, detaining several for questioning. Three accused were arrested, and police presence in the village was increased as a precaution while investigations continued.
35. Hindus Attacked by Muslim Extremists During Holi in Rudrapur
In the Bhootbangla area of Rudrapur, Udham Singh Nagar district, Uttarakhand, Hindus celebrating Holi were brutally attacked on 5 March 2026 by a group of Muslim men. The incident began when a Muslim youth repeatedly drove his e-rickshaw through a neighbourhood Holi gathering, ignoring requests from Hindu residents to stop.
The youth later returned with several companions and launched an assault using stones, sticks, and even firearms. Hindu families were forced to flee as violence spread across the lanes. More than a dozen Hindus sustained injuries and were admitted to the district hospital. Residents reported that women and children were left terrified by the sudden outbreak of violence.
Police arrived promptly, used lathi charges to disperse the attackers, and registered FIRs against the perpetrators. Patrols were intensified, and investigations are ongoing to identify all involved.
36. Holi festival disrupted as Muslims brutally assault Hindus, molest women over DJ music in Rae Bareli
Hindus celebrating Holi in the Sabji Mandi area of Bachhrawan town were brutally attacked by a group of Muslim men, resulting in injuries to at least thirteen people, including ten men and three women. The violence erupted after a dispute over the DJ music being played during the celebrations. When members of the Muslim community objected, they began throwing bricks and stones at the Hindu celebrants. The conflict quickly escalated as some assailants attacked from rooftops with knives, and several Hindu women were reportedly molested during the assault.
Hindus who tried to intervene to protect fellow celebrants were also targeted, underscoring the premeditated nature of the attack. The violence turned a festive Holi gathering, which marks the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring, into a scene of chaos and terror. Locals described the scene as horrifying, with families, including women and children, fleeing for safety as the assailants used weapons and engaged in coordinated attacks.
37. Hindu social media influencer arrested in Tamil Nadu over advocacy for Hindu rights
Pavithran, a Hindu YouTuber who runs the channel Hindu News, was arrested by Tamil Nadu police for posting content supporting Hindu rights and criticising the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government. Pavithran’s channel, known for highlighting temple protections, Hindu cultural issues, and Tamil heritage, has amassed a significant following for its focus on Hindu causes and opposition to policies perceived as anti-Hindu.
38. Hindus attacked by Muslim men for celebrating Holi in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
In Manethu village under Gajner police station, several Hindus were injured when a group of Muslim men attacked them during Holi celebrations. The violence erupted in the evening after a dispute began between a few Hindu youths sitting near a local school and a passing Muslim youth. Within minutes, the confrontation escalated as more people from both communities gathered, and the Muslim group launched an assault using sticks and stones.
Five Hindus, including Rekha Devi (35), Sushil Kumar (50), Rajendra Kumar, and Shobha (22), sustained injuries and were taken to the district hospital for treatment. Locals described a tense atmosphere, with families rushing indoors to avoid further violence. One villager said, “Children were playing Holi, but suddenly, Muslim people came with sticks. Everyone was scared.”
Police arrived promptly, registered complaints, and began collecting statements from both sides. Authorities increased patrolling in the area to prevent further escalation and assured strict action against those found guilty.
March 06, 2026
39. Minor Hindu Students Restricted from Wearing Tilak in Pune School
A controversy arose at a local school in Pune when minor Hindu students were reportedly restricted from wearing a tilak by the school administration.
According to the reports, the restrictions were imposed by the school’s principal, identified as an Ambedkarite. The affected students belong to Hindu families and had been wearing a tilak as part of their religious practice. The directive prevented them from continuing this practice while attending school.
Parents and community members raised concerns about the restriction, emphasising the students’ right to express their religious identity. No official statement from the school or the principal regarding the rationale for the restriction was made public at the time of reporting.
The incident has drawn attention within local communities, highlighting ongoing debates over religious expression in educational institutions. The identities of the students and families involved have been withheld due to their minor status.
40. American Influencer Denigrates Holi Celebrations at Tennessee Preschool
A social media post by an American nationalist influencer targeted Holi celebrations at the Primrose School of Farragut. The post was published on the influencer’s X handle, ‘Info Battle Maiden’, and gained significant attention online.
The post criticised the school’s Holi event, describing it as a “Hindu pagan holiday” and questioning the presence of Hindu cultural practices in an American school. The influencer referred to Hindu deities as “foreign gods” and suggested that the celebration represented a “Hindutva replacement” in American society. The post concluded with the statement: “Flood the schools and overwrite the culture. All part of the plan.”
The post prompted a range of reactions. Some American users expressed disapproval of the celebration, while others mocked Hindu culture. Many Indian Hindu users and others responded by clarifying that Holi is primarily a cultural festival marking the arrival of spring.
41. Dalit Hindu Settlement Attacked by Muslim Extremists in Tonk, Rajasthan
A Hindu Dalit settlement in Tonk was targeted in a violent stone-pelting attack by a mob of Muslim men. The assault damaged homes and shops and left several residents, including women and children, injured.
The incident began after Taraweeh prayers, when a few Muslim men returning home reportedly had an argument with Hindu residents of the Valmiki settlement. The dispute quickly escalated, and the men began throwing stones at the settlement. Residents described the sudden attack as frightening, with stones striking homes and shops indiscriminately.
Police from the Tonk station arrived promptly, dispersing the mob and detaining several individuals for questioning. A First Information Report (FIR) was registered, and additional police forces were deployed to prevent further escalation. Injured residents received treatment at local hospitals. Community representatives called for strict action against the perpetrators and for protection of the Hindu residents’ rights.
42. Ancient Hindu Temple and Idols Set Ablaze by Muslim Extremist in Chamba
In Kaliyun village of Jadera Panchayat, a Hindu temple and its consecrated idols were deliberately set on fire by a Muslim youth. The incident targeted the Jalpa Mata Temple, an ancient religious site of significance for the local Hindu community.
The attack occurred at night when a 12-year-old Muslim boy ignited a fire inside the temple. The blaze damaged the idol of Goddess Jalpa Mata and destroyed sacred clothes and offerings placed before the deity. Villagers noticed the fire quickly and intervened to control the flames, preventing more extensive damage to the temple structure.
Following the incident, the Sadar Police Station in Chamba registered a complaint and began an investigation. The Muslim youth and his family were summoned for questioning. Authorities confirmed that a case had been filed, and local police were collecting evidence from the scene.
43. Hindu Temple Desecrated; Islamic Flag Hoisted and Idols Draped with Green Cloth in Chhindwara
In Sonpur village of Amarwara constituency, a Hindu temple was desecrated when unidentified individuals hoisted a green Islamic flag at the temple gate and draped sacred idols with green cloth.
Locals discovered the act on the morning of 6 March 2026 and alerted the police. Amarwara police arrived by 9:30 am and began investigating, including reviewing nearby CCTV footage. Additional personnel were deployed to maintain peace, and officers questioned villagers to help identify the culprits. No arrests had been reported at the time.
The incident violated the sanctity of the temple and the consecrated idols, disrupting traditional practices and the spiritual atmosphere of the place of worship. Covering murtis with green cloth and displaying a foreign religious emblem was perceived as a direct affront to Hindu religious symbols and traditions, constituting deliberate desecration.
March 07, 2026
44. Varanasi Shocker: Minor Hindu Girl Abducted, Raped, Forced Conversion by Muslim Man at Assi Ghat
A minor Hindu girl from Chandauli’s Baburi police station area was abducted on March 7, 2026, from Assi Ghat in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, by Nabi Rasool alias Javed, a Muslim man. She was drugged, raped, subjected to obscene photos and videos, forced to convert to Islam, and pressured into marriage with him before he dumped her unconscious near a village on March 8 and fled.
The victim’s father reported her missing after she visited Assi Ghat with her brother, who had stepped away briefly to buy items. Javed contacted the family from an unknown number, declaring he held the girl and intended to convert her religion and marry her forcibly.
Bhelupur police arrested Nabi Rasool following reports to Child Line and confirmation by sources that the victim was Hindu. The girl stated she was held hostage, raped, and coerced into conversion under threats involving the recorded material.
45. Hindu Man Brutally Stabbed to Death by Muslim Man and Accomplices in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
Ganesh Pal, a 40-year-old Hindu man, was murdered at his home in Boro Bazar when a Muslim man named Zeeshan and several accomplices attempted to extort money from him. The victim was stabbed in the stomach after refusing to pay one lakh rupees and later declared dead at Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital.
The attack took place around 1:30 pm while Ganesh Pal was performing maintenance at his residence. Locals brought him to the hospital in a critical state, but the injuries proved fatal. Police have initiated an investigation, conducted an autopsy, and carried out drives to arrest the accused. At the time of reporting, none of the perpetrators had been apprehended.
The killing occurred amidst a wider pattern of anti-Hindu violence in Bangladesh, including post-election attacks and targeted assaults following the deaths of political figures associated with communal tensions. Hindu communities in districts such as Noakhali, Rangpur, Nilphamari, Sylhet, Thakurgaon, and Dinajpur have reported arson, looting, and assaults on homes and temples.
46. Sacred Hindu Idol Vandalised and Stolen from Temple by Muslim Man in Aligarh
A sacred Radha Krishna idol at the Mahadev Mandir in the Kodiyaganj area of Aligarh was vandalised and stolen by a Muslim youth. The incident occurred within the jurisdiction of Akarabad Police Station, prompting swift police action and the arrest of the accused.
According to reports, the accused entered the temple premises and damaged the Radha Krishna idol installed inside. After breaking the idol, he attempted to steal it from the temple. Local residents noticed the incident and immediately informed the police, who arrived at the scene and initiated an investigation.
During the inquiry, the accused was identified and taken into custody. Police also reviewed CCTV footage from the temple to reconstruct the sequence of events and determine whether others were involved. A case was registered against the accused under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
47. Bomb Attack at Hindu Temple in Comilla District, Bangladesh
On Saturday, 7 March 2026, a Hindu temple in Comilla District, Bangladesh, was targeted in a bomb attack during a puja ceremony. The explosion occurred while devotees were present, resulting in multiple injuries.
Local sources reported that the attack caused panic among worshippers, and several attendees sustained injuries of varying severity. Details about the victims, including the number and their condition, are limited to initial reports.
No official information regarding the perpetrators has been confirmed. Sources allege that the attack was directed at Hindu religious representations and temples in the area. Investigations by local authorities are ongoing.
The incident highlights continuing security concerns for minority religious communities in the region. Authorities have urged calm and are reportedly taking steps to secure affected religious sites.
March 08, 2026
48. Religious Conversion Activity Reported in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
On Sunday, 8 March 2026, Hindu residents in the Azad Nagar area of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, reported a gathering in the basement of a residential building that they identified as religious conversion activity by a group associated with Christian missionary work. Several young men and women were present inside the premises.
Residents and members of local Hindu organisations raised concerns that vulnerable individuals were being targeted for religious conversion. The information prompted authorities to intervene. Police from the Kotwali Ganga Ghat station and the emergency response service Uttar Pradesh-112 arrived at the site, inspected the premises, and questioned those present. The attendees stated that the meeting was only a prayer gathering and denied that conversion activities occurred. Authorities continued to examine the circumstances to determine whether unlawful inducement or influence had taken place.
49. Communal Assault on Hindus in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
On Sunday, 8 March 2026, a group of Hindus in Raj Royal Colony, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, were attacked during celebrations of India’s victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final. The incident occurred late at night under the jurisdiction of Chimanganj Mandi Police Station. The violence began after a Hindu family was bursting firecrackers outside their home, prompting objection from a group of local Muslim youths, which escalated into a physical assault on the family and subsequently on other Hindus in the locality.
Police confirmed that First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered from both sides, and several individuals were detained. Five individuals from one group and three from the other, along with associates, were identified as accused. Authorities reviewed CCTV footage and deployed additional personnel in the area to prevent further tensions. A peace committee meeting was planned to restore calm.
Victims of the assault included Ravindra Hada, Drishti Hada, Manish Mehrale, Anita Mehrale, Vimala Malviya, Laila Singh, Manvendra Hada, and Vishal Malviya. Injuries were also reported among members of the opposing group, including Shadab Khan, Wahid Khan, and a Muslim woman. Complaints were filed by both Hindu and Muslim parties, and police registered cases under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.
50. Hindu Family Attacked in Alwar, Rajasthan Over Cricket Celebrations
On Sunday, 8 March 2026, a Hindu family in Badhoda Ghumakkad village, Alwar, Rajasthan, was attacked during celebrations of India’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final victory. The incident occurred around 10:30 PM under the jurisdiction of Kishangarh Bas Police Station. The family had been watching the match from their rooftop and clapped in response to Indian bowler Jasprit Bumrah taking consecutive wickets.
Local Muslim men objected to the celebration, leading to an argument that quickly escalated. A group of 15 to 20 individuals gathered outside the house and assaulted the family using sticks and rods while also pelting stones. During the attack, one assailant climbed onto the roof and opened fire. Bhajno Baiwas, aged 30, sustained serious head injuries and required nine stitches at Alwar District Hospital. Her maternal uncle, Riku, was also injured.
51. Hindu Youth’s Murder in Delhi and Subsequent Media Distortion
On 4 March 2026, Tarun Kumar, a 26-year-old Hindu man, was beaten to death by a Muslim mob in Uttam Nagar, Delhi. The confrontation began when a water balloon thrown by the victim’s 11-year-old niece accidentally struck a Muslim woman. The attack escalated into mob violence resulting in Tarun Kumar’s death.
Following the incident, several media figures and commentators circulated narratives that downplayed the communal dimension of the killing, portraying it as a personal or neighbourhood dispute. Some accounts falsely accused the deceased of molestation. A video amplified by a political commentator presented the Muslim woman as the primary victim and framed the violence as “self-defence,” while linking unrelated organisations to the incident.
Social media claims also circulated regarding a boy named Rizwan, alleging he was missing, which was later clarified by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Dwarka, as false. Rizwan was one of the main accused and had been sent to an observation home under the Juvenile Justice Board. Despite these clarifications, narratives continued to shift, questioning the legitimacy of the arrest rather than addressing the attack itself.
52. Minor Hindu Boy Killed in Feni, Bangladesh Amid Rising Anti-Hindu Violence
On 8 March 2026, a 16-year-old Hindu boy, Shanto Kumar Saha, was killed in Lalpol, Feni district, Bangladesh. Shanto was loading luggage into his autorickshaw near the Miyaji filling station when unidentified assailants attacked him. He was beaten and thrown under a culvert, and when he attempted to chase the assailants, he was pushed onto the Dhaka-Chittagong Highway, where he was struck by a vehicle and died instantly.
Eyewitnesses and family members stated that the attackers exploited the calm of the evening during Iftar to target Shanto and attempt a robbery. Police recovered his body and sent it to Feni General Hospital for post-mortem. CCTV footage from the area was suggested as a potential lead to identify the assailants.
53. Alleged Targeted Proselytisation of Hindu Villagers in Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh
On Sunday, 8 March 2026, a group of Hindu villagers in Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh, were reportedly approached by Christian missionaries. According to local sources, the villagers were offered inducements and exposed to religious texts as part of efforts aimed at conversion.
The victims, identified as members of the local Hindu community, were said to have been persuaded through these means. The alleged perpetrators were described as individuals associated with the missionary activities, though no further identifying details were provided in the reports.
Local accounts emphasize that the approach involved both religious instruction and material incentives. The sources framing this incident characterized it as a case of predatory proselytisation. Authorities or law enforcement involvement was not detailed in the information received.
The week from 2-8 March 2026 was marked by a concentrated series of incidents affecting Hindu communities across India and Bangladesh, reflecting persistent challenges to religious safety, cultural expression, and communal harmony. Political discourse intersected with religious sensitivities, as seen in remarks by national leaders, while festival-related assaults underscored vulnerability during traditional celebrations like Holi.
Simultaneously, attempts at predatory proselytisation were documented in several regions, indicating efforts to influence vulnerable populations and disrupt religious continuity. Combined with administrative restrictions on traditional practices and arrests of Hindu advocates, these events suggest a widening gap between religious rights and enforcement protection.
