Christian group alleges police spying in Assam, urges immediate halt

The United Christian Forum (UCF) has raised serious concerns about police actions in the district, alleging that law enforcement personnel have been conducting surveillance on churches without prior notification.

According to a memorandum submitted by the UCF to the district commissioner on May 14, police officers have been entering churches in Diphu and the Dokmuka police station area, photographing the premises, and questioning church authorities without prior notice. This unexpected activity has reportedly caused significant distress among the local Christian community.

The UCF has called for the district administration to halt these activities immediately to maintain public peace. The organization has highlighted the unusual collection of data on churches and their congregations, which has been ongoing for the past week, as a source of alarm.

In response, the police have clarified that their actions are part of a directive from the police headquarters aimed at ensuring the security of Christian institutions. Sanjib Saikia, the Superintendent of Police in Karbi Anglong, stated that the visits are intended to review the safety measures in place at these religious institutions. The directive follows multiple complaints of intimidation directed at Christian institutions and educational trusts across the state.

The context for this increased security review includes a recent appeal by the Assam Catholic Educational Trust to DGP G.P. Singh. The Trust requested enhanced security for missionary educational institutions following alleged threats from a right-wing Hindu group. This group purportedly demanded the removal of religious statues and attire from Christian campuses, creating a tense atmosphere for the local Christian population.