(RVA News): Father Benedict Barla, assistant parish priest at St. Michael’s Cathedral, Ranchi, eastern India, and principal-in-charge of R.C. Middle School in neighbouring Khunti, remained in intensive care at a hospital in on October 21, after masked men allegedly attacked him with sharp-edged weapons in his school office, Catholic Connect reported.
Father Barla sustained severe head injuries and was left unconscious after an attack at around 8:50pm on October 20, according to Father George Hemrom, secretary to the bishop of the Diocese of Khunti. Three to four masked men allegedly assaulted him near the principal’s and staff offices, then stole money before fleeing.
He remained unconscious at the scene overnight.
Other priests discovered the attack the next morning and took him to Sadar Hospital in Khunti for initial treatment. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, he was referred to the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences in Ranchi and subsequently admitted to the intensive care unit of Pulse Hospital, Ranchi.
A report by The Indian Express said CCTV footage showed three masked men arriving at the school on a motorcycle at around 9:00pm. The school was reportedly closed for a festival, and the person who usually stayed with Father Barla was away attending his mother’s funeral.
Father Barla sustained severe head injuries and was left unconscious after an attack at around 8:50pm on October 20
The circumstances have raised questions as to whether the attackers knew the priest was alone. Authorities have not yet established a motive for the assault.
The assault triggered protests on October 21, when tribal Christians and other groups gathered at Bhagat Singh Chowk in Khunti. Media reports said demonstrators blocked roads and demanded the immediate arrest of the attackers. Some protesters reportedly gave police a 24-hour ultimatum to act.
Khunti is a predominantly tribal district in Jharkhand, in eastern India, with a significant Adivasi [Indigenous] population. The incident has raised concerns among local Christians and community members, who are demanding swift police action.
Church officials and members of the local community are awaiting further information as the investigation continues. The identities of the assailants and the motive for the attack remain unknown.
Police are examining CCTV footage and other evidence to identify the suspects and clarify the circumstances of the attack. The weapon used has not been independently confirmed, and no arrests had been reported as of October 21.
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