Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed deep concern on December 25, 2025, over reports of vandalism, attacks, and disruptions targeting Christmas celebrations in parts of India, describing the festival as being marred by “fear and anxiety” for the Christian community. In statements shared on social media and in media interactions, Tharoor highlighted incidents in the days leading up to Christmas, including alleged vandalism of churches, decorations, and nativity scenes in certain regions. He emphasized that these acts were not isolated to one religious group but constituted an assault on India's shared cultural fabric and pluralistic ethos. The veteran parliamentarian called for unity, stating that such intolerance threatens the very idea of India as a nation that celebrates diversity.

Tharoor's remarks came amid a series of reported incidents across states, where groups allegedly disrupted Christmas preparations, damaged religious symbols, or harassed communities during carol singing and midnight mass services. While specific locations and details varied, reports from social media and local news outlets pointed to disturbances in parts of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and other areas, prompting widespread condemnation from civil society and opposition leaders. Tharoor urged authorities to take swift action against the perpetrators, ensure the safety of religious minorities, and uphold constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and expression. He stressed that protecting Christmas—and by extension, all festivals—was essential to preserving India's secular identity.

The Congress leader framed the issue as a broader challenge to national unity, noting that attacks on any community erode the collective sense of security and harmony. “This is not just a Christian issue; it is an assault on all of us,” Tharoor remarked, calling on citizens and political parties to reject divisive forces and reaffirm commitment to coexistence. His intervention echoed similar concerns raised by other opposition figures and Christian organizations, who have demanded investigations and accountability. Church leaders and community representatives have also appealed for calm while urging law enforcement to prevent further escalation during the festive season.

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As India marked Christmas 2025, Tharoor's statement underscored ongoing debates around religious freedom, communal harmony, and the role of the state in safeguarding minority rights. Authorities have yet to issue a comprehensive response to the reported incidents, though police in affected areas have registered cases in select complaints. The episode highlights the delicate balance required to maintain India's multi-religious society, especially during major festivals, and serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance against intolerance in all forms.

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