TNI Bureau: More than two weeks after a Christian pastor was brutally assaulted, publicly humiliated, and tortured by a mob in Odisha’s Dhenkanal district, no arrests have been made, raising serious concerns over police inaction. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma condemned the incident, calling it a grave violation of constitutional rights and urging swift, decisive action against those responsible.

The incident occurred on January 4, 2026, in Parjang village, where Pastor Bipin Bihari Naik was allegedly attacked by a group of around 40 people during a prayer meeting. According to the family and witnesses, he was beaten, paraded with a garland of slippers, forced to consume cow dung, and coerced into chanting religious slogans. His wife and children managed to escape and seek police help, but police reportedly reached the spot nearly two hours later.

While a case was registered for the assault, police also filed a counter FIR against the pastor, accusing him of forced religious conversion—an allegation his family denies. No suspects have been arrested so far.

The attack has sparked fear among the local Christian community, with several families reportedly going into hiding. Pastor Naik and his family are currently staying in a safe location.

On the anniversary of missionary Graham Staines’ martyrdom, Pastor Naik publicly chose forgiveness over retaliation but appealed to authorities to ensure peace, safety, and freedom of religion.

Family members have alleged police negligence and delayed response, stating that repeated pleas for help were ignored during the assault. Rights groups and activists say the incident reflects a broader pattern of communal violence and lack of accountability in the state.

Despite public outrage, the perpetrators remain at large, deepening concerns about justice and protection for religious minorities in Odisha.