Dispute over Christian burial in Jamgaon village, Chhattisgarh

Raipur (Team Newsbuddy): Jamgaon, Narharpur Block, Kanker District — A tense situation has emerged in Jamgaon village following the peaceful burial of Somlal Rathod (53), a Christian resident, on his private, legally-owned land. Rathod passed away at 8:30 PM on 26th July 2025 at Komal Dev Hospital, Kanker, due to kidney-related complications. The burial took place at 10:00 AM on 27th July.

According to Simon Digbal Tandi Coordinator Progressive Christian Alliance, despite the burial being conducted lawfully on private land within village limits, certain local villagers opposed it, leading to a confrontation between the Christian family and members of the community. The situation escalated with verbal disputes and increasing communal tension.

Allegations of Instigation
According to Bharat Rathod, the son of the deceased, the village sarpanch Bhagawati Uike, Hira Markam of Gahari Bandha, and Bajrang Dal activist Gaurav Sori are allegedly inciting villagers to exhume the body, a demand that has deeply hurt the Christian community and violates the dignity of the deceased.

Police & Administrative Response
The Narharpur Tehsildar and TI (Town Inspector) reached the burial site promptly along with a police force to de-escalate tensions. They are now investigating the matter. According to Patiram, the local pastor, both he and Bharat Rathod have been summoned to the SDM office in Kanker on 28th July for further discussion and resolution.

Current Situation
The atmosphere in Jamgaon remains tense. The local administration is attempting to mediate peace and prevent any further communal discord. Given the religious and emotional sensitivity of the issue, authorities are urged to act with impartiality and compassion.

Meanwhile, Progressive Christian Alliance has appeal for Peace and Dignity. It has
humbly request prayers for peace and harmony in Jamgaon. The dignity of the deceased not be violated under any circumstance and authorities to uphold constitutional rights, including the right to religious freedom and peaceful burial.