Assam Police Arrest Four for Vandalising School in Nalbari on Christmas

Assam: The Assam Police on Wednesday arrested four persons in connection with the vandalisation of a school in Nalbari district on Christmas Day, officials said. The incident had sparked outrage among local residents and educationists, who condemned the attack on an educational institution during a major festival.

On December 24, 2025, a group of activists stormed St. Mary’s English School in Panigaon village, Nalbari district, Assam, vandalising Christmas decorations ahead of the festival. The intruders tore down banners, posters, and lights, dismantled a nativity crib, damaged plant pots, and set several items on fire while chanting “Jai Shree Ram” slogans and warning school authorities against celebrating Christmas. The same group targeted shops in Nalbari town selling Christmas merchandise, burning items like Santa caps and trees in public view, protesting what they called a “foreign” festival.

Soon after the incident came to light, a case was registered at the concerned police station, and a special team was formed to investigate the matter. Based on CCTV footage, local intelligence, and witness statements, the police identified and arrested four accused within 48 hours of the incident. The arrested individuals – Bhaskar Deka (VHP Nalbari district secretary), Manash Jyoti Patgiri (VHP vice-president), Biju Dutta (VHP assistant secretary), and Nayan Talukdar (Bajrang Dal district convenor) face charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for criminal trespass, mischief, intimidation, and conspiracy.

The Assam Christian Forum condemned the act as an assault on religious freedom under Article 25 of the Constitution, stating it threatens communal harmony and deviates from Assam’s ethos of unity. Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi called it a divisive attack on constitutional values. A senior police official stated that vandalism of public property, especially educational institutions, would not be tolerated. “Strict action will be taken against those responsible. Schools are places of learning and must be protected,” the official said.

The district administration has assured that repair work will begin soon to ensure that classes are not disrupted. Meanwhile, security around educational institutions has been tightened as a precautionary measure. Local residents welcomed the swift police action and urged authorities to ensure the safety of schools and public property in the future.