Indian bishops condemn racial abuse of Northeast girls in Delhi

Catholic bishops urge swift action and greater public awareness after racial harassment of young women from Northeast India in Delhi, warning such incidents stain the nation’s cultural heritage.

NEW DELHI (Indian Catholic News) — Catholic bishops in India are calling for prompt action after the “unacceptable” racial harassment of girls from Northeast India in the national capital, condemning the incident as a stain on the country’s cultural heritage.

In a statement issued Feb. 26, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) denounced the abuse reported in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar neighbourhood.

“The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) strongly condemns the shameful act of racial abuse and harassment of girls from Northeast India in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar,” the statement said.

The bishops said repeated incidents targeting people from the northeastern region were deeply troubling.

“Such repeated incidents in different parts of our country are unacceptable and a blot on our rich and diverse cultural heritage,” the conference said.

The statement also welcomed the swift response of law enforcement authorities in the case.

“We appreciate the prompt action taken by the Delhi police in this matter,” the bishops said.

Police said a couple accused of racial abuse and criminal intimidation of three women from Arunachal Pradesh were arrested and remanded to 14 days of judicial custody on Feb 25.

The incident occurred on the afternoon of Feb. 20, when three women living as tenants in an apartment complex in Malviya Nagar alleged mental harassment and humiliation during a confrontation with neighbours. No physical injuries were reported.

Call for awareness and respect

The bishops urged authorities to promote greater understanding of the cultural diversity of India’s northeastern states.

“We request the Union Government and all state governments to sensitise the general public about the diverse cultures, languages, and traditions of Northeast India, and ensure the safety and dignity of all citizens, particularly those from Northeast,” the statement said.

The CBCI reiterated its opposition to discrimination and harassment in any form.

“The CBCI stands firmly against any type of discrimination and harassment,” the bishops said. “We believe that every citizen has the right to live with dignity and respect, regardless of their origin or background.”

The bishops also appealed to the public to reject prejudice and stand in solidarity with victims of discrimination.

“We urge all citizens to promote unity, understanding, and respect for diversity, and to stand together against such shameful acts,” the statement said.

Christianity is a major faith in Northeast India, forming a majority in Nagaland, Mizoram and Meghalaya, and a significant share of the population in Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh.