A church under construction in Subhasgram’s Buri Bottola area of Sonarpur, West Bengal, was attacked and vandalized by a group of about 100 people on July 9, 2026. The attackers allegedly broke into the building, damaged pillars, and destroyed three crosses on the roof. Members of the small Christian community said they were also threatened during the assault. Witnesses reported that the incident occurred while painting work was underway inside the church.

The attackers reportedly identified themselves as members of the Hindu Jagaran Manch and accused local Christians of converting people with financial inducements, a claim denied by the victims. The church belongs to the Presbyterian Church of India and serves 116 members from around 50 families. Police detained three suspects and filed a case under charges of trespassing, damage, and criminal intimidation. Authorities said the situation is now calm.

Christian leader Herod Mallik announced that a delegation had visited the site and called for a protest rally on July 14. The incident has sparked political controversy, with the CPI(M) accusing the ruling BJP of fostering communal tensions in the state.