Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Christmas morning service at the Cathedral Church of the Redemption in New Delhi on December 25, 2025, participating in prayers, carols, and hymns alongside a large congregation of Christians from the capital and northern India. In his message following the event, Modi emphasized that the service embodied the eternal principles of love, peace, and compassion, expressing hope that the Christmas spirit would foster greater harmony and goodwill throughout society. This appearance continues a pattern of engagement with the Christian community, as officials noted his participation in similar events in previous years, including Easter services and hosted gatherings.

Bharatiya Janata Party President JP Nadda also joined Christmas festivities at a school in New Delhi, organized by a Christian fellowship group, describing the atmosphere as warm and joyful while invoking the teachings of Jesus Christ to promote societal values. These public displays by senior leaders underscore efforts to project inclusivity during the festive season, aligning with broader initiatives to connect with minority communities across various religious observances.

However, the celebrations were overshadowed by widespread reports of incidents targeting Christians during the Christmas period, including disruptions of prayer meetings, vandalism of decorations, and assaults in several states governed by the BJP. Advocacy groups documented over 700 cases of violence against Christians up to November 2025, with monitoring organizations highlighting a surge in intimidation, church attacks, and harassment of carol singers, often attributed to right-wing groups. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India strongly condemned these acts, appealing to authorities for stringent law enforcement and protection to safeguard constitutional rights to religious freedom.

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Opposition leaders sharply criticized the government, pointing to a perceived disconnect between symbolic gestures and ground realities. Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien highlighted specific incidents, questioning the sincerity of messages promoting love and compassion amid alleged silence on violence. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin decried attacks by certain groups, citing data indicating a substantial increase in hate speech against minorities since the central government took office, warning of impending risks to national unity and urging resolute action against divisive elements.

CPI(M) Rajya Sabha member John Brittas lamented the persistent assaults on Christian institutions and gatherings, asserting that a direct acknowledgment of accountability from leadership could significantly alleviate concerns. As Christmas concluded, the contrasting narratives—of official participation in festivities versus documented challenges faced by the community—intensified debates on religious harmony, minority protection, and the effective implementation of constitutional safeguards in contemporary India.

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