1 week Ago By Sanjay Samuel Paul
Hyderabad: The Twin City Pastors Association and Christian leaders condemned the clash at the Hebron Church in Hyderabad on Thursday that left several people injured. They urged the government to intervene and ensure protection for the church and its members. Former DGP Babu Rao, speaking at a press conference here on Saturday, expressed concern over the incident and called for a government-led investigation.
“A special committee should be formed to probe this matter thoroughly,” he said. Rev Dr Mohan Babu, president of the association, questioned the police's inaction, stating, “Despite several individuals being injured, no FIR has been registered yet. The group responsible for vandalism and harassment of preachers is going unchecked.
We request the government to ensure the safety of the church and its congregation.” Christian leader Roydin Roach highlighted the historical and spiritual significance of the Hebron Church. “This is one of the oldest spiritual centres, and it is heartbreaking to witness such incidents here.
I urge the government to step in and resolve this matter,” he said. The clash occurred on Thursday at around 3 pm when one group allegedly entered the church premises with henchmen, damaging CCTV equipment and hard drives before trying to remove the existing administrative group. The dispute reportedly stems from a dispute over control of the church's administration, offerings, and property.
Police intervened to de-escalate the situation, but tensions remain high. The matter is under litigation in both the High Court and a lower court, revolving around a dispute between a society and a trust. Hebron Church, located at Golconda Crossroads, serves as the headquarters of a congregation founded in 1950 by Sikh convert Bhakt Singh.
The church has over 2,000 associate churches across India and around 3,000 in the Telugu-speaking states. Every Sunday, the headquarters alone sees a congregation of nearly 2,000 worshippers. Bhakt Singh’s ministry, which began at Hebron, spread worldwide.
He passed away in September 2000..
