Modi’s Christmas call for harmony clashes with Assam school disruption
December 25, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Christmas message promoting peace, unity and harmony has come under intense public scrutiny following allegations of attack and disruption of a Christian-run school in Assam. The contrast between the Prime Minister’s call for Eid and the event on the ground has sparked widespread debate on social media and in political circles, raising concerns about religious tolerance and the safety of minorities in India.
According to reports, members of the local right-wing group visited St. Mary’s Church in Assam during Christmas celebrations. It is alleged that they entered St. Mary’s School and chanted slogans, damaged decorations and disturbed students and staff. Eyewitness accounts claim that Christmas trees, lights and religious symbols were targeted, creating fear among children and teachers who were present at the time. Although no major injuries were reported, the incident shook the local Christian community and led to demands for accountability. The incident occurred a few hours after Prime Minister Modi conveyed Christmas greetings to citizens, emphasizing the values of compassion, co-existence and respect for all faiths. In his message, he emphasized India’s cultural diversity and the importance of harmony in festivals.
But the timing of the Assam incident has led critics to question the gap between official rhetoric and the realities faced by minority communities.
Political leaders and civil rights activists condemned the attack and urged the Assam government to take swift action and ensure the safety of religious institutions. Opposition parties accused authorities of failing to curb growing intolerance, while some suggested a broader pattern of hostility towards minority celebrations was emerging, noting similar incidents reported in other parts of the country. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the state government does not support any religious violence and assured that the matter will be investigated.
However, reports showing no immediate arrests were made further fueling public outrage and online debates demanding justice. The incident reignited national debates about religious freedom, constitutional values, and the responsibility of governments to protect minority rights. As India continues to project itself as a pluralistic democracy, incidents such as the Assam school disruption highlight the challenges of translating messages of unity into action on the ground. The conflict between a message of harmony from the highest office and an assertion of intolerance is a reminder that maintaining social harmony requires consistent law enforcement, accountability and respect for all communities, not just with words, especially in moments of celebration and peace.
This article was written by Deccan Chronicle intern Akanksha Sudham.
