Chhattisgarh Christians Protest Against BJP MLA’s Remarks on Jesus Christ and Conversions

Chhattisgarh — Members of the Christian community in Jashpur district staged a peaceful protest in the form of a human chain against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Raymuni Bhagat. The protest was sparked by Bhagat’s alleged derogatory remarks about Jesus Christ and religious conversions, which were made during a public event in Dhekni village on September 1. A video of her speech went viral, prompting calls for action from the Christian community.

The protest, organized by the Christian Adivasi Mahasabha, began on October 3 and stretched from Pathalgaon to Lodum along the Katni-Gumla highway. Anil Kumar Kispotta, president of the Christian Adivasi Mahasabha, explained that the human chain was formed due to the inaction by local authorities despite complaints being filed after Bhagat’s remarks.

“There is immense resentment among the Christian community because of Bhagat’s comments. Despite this, no action has been taken by the authorities. Today, we protested peacefully, but if no action is taken, we will escalate our demonstrations with road blockades,” said Kispotta.

While several individuals approached the police after the video surfaced, seeking legal action, no first information report (FIR) has been filed against the lawmaker to date. The deadline for police action passed on September 25, leading the Christian Tribal Mahasabha to organize the protest.

Bhagat, responding to the controversy, defended her comments, claiming that her speech aimed to raise awareness about conversions in the region. She alleged that before 1905, no Christian families lived in Jashpur, and that conversions had taken place through fraudulent means.

Christian community members had lodged complaints in various police stations across Jashpur on September 10, urging the authorities to file an FIR against Bhagat. However, no official action has been taken so far. Despite the peaceful nature of the current protest, community leaders have warned that if their demands are not met, more aggressive demonstrations, including road blockades, will follow.

As the situation continues to unfold, tensions remain high in the region. The Christian community calls for justice and accountability while maintaining their commitment to peaceful protest.