Dehradun: A group of Hindutva activists allegedly stormed into a home in Dehradun where a Christian prayer meeting was taking place, assaulting attendees and vandalizing property. The attack occurred during a Sunday morning prayer session at the residence of Rajesh Bhoomi, a pastor, on July 14.

Reports indicate that the attackers, identified as Devendra Dobhal and others associated with Hindutva outfits, forcibly entered the house, accused the attendees of engaging in forced conversions, and proceeded to vandalize the prayer room and bedroom. They also allegedly made derogatory remarks against the Christian faith.

The victims, including women and children present at the gathering, were reportedly assaulted, with at least seven individuals sustaining injuries. The incident has left the family and witnesses traumatized, including young children who were also subjected to threats and violence.

An FIR has been lodged against 11 accused at Nehru Colony police station under various sections, including voluntarily causing hurt, rioting, destruction of property, trespass, and deliberate outrage of religious feelings. Despite the severity of the incident, no arrests have been made thus far.

Satbir Singh, investigating officer at the Nehru Colony police station, told Newslaundry, “No religious conversion was taking place at the house. People from Hindutva outfits have misbehaved with the family members and vandalized their house.”

A video of the incident reviewed by Newslaundry showed a group of men vandalizing a cross podium and musical equipment in a room, and engaging in assault.

Netizens have questioned the media for not reporting this incident. Alt News co-founder Mohammed Zubair questioned, “One of the accused who led the mob who attacked people including women during Christian prayer meet is Devendra Dobhal. He claims to be a former army personnel & RSS member. Is this the reason why many National News Channels including @smitaprakash aren't reporting on this?”

“They misbehaved with the children too. They slapped their heads and asked them why do you participate in this prayer? They told them to never take part in Sunday prayers in future,” Rajesh Bhoomi, a pastor who owns an eatery in Haridwar, said.

The incident has sparked outrage and raised concerns about religious intolerance and the safety of minority communities in the region. The police have assured that an investigation is underway and a chargesheet will be filed soon.