Bengaluru: Allegations of social boycott and assault within a city church have sparked controversy after police filed a ‘B report’ — effectively closing the case — despite the complainant claiming to have submitted video evidence and eyewitness statements.
Santosh Kumar, a resident of Chikkagubbi, has petitioned the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, DGP and the Bengaluru Police Commissioner seeking a CID probe into a case registered at Bagalur police station. The complaint pertains to an alleged incident at Christian Fellowship Church (CFC) in Bellahalli near Hennur Road.
santhosh Kumar stated that he had been a member of the church since 2002 and had actively participated in its activities. According to him, tensions began after he questioned certain alleged irregularities within the church administration. He claimed that he was subsequently prevented from attending religious programmes and was socially boycotted.
Referring to an incident dated June 8, 2025, Kumar alleged that he was assaulted by pastors while on his way to Sunday prayers. Though he initially complained to Bagalur police, he alleged that no FIR was registered. Later, after submitting video evidence and approaching senior officers, an FIR (Crime No. 0185/2026) was filed.
However, Santhosh Kumar has now alleged that during the investigation, police ignored video footage and eyewitness accounts, including that of his mother. He claimed that investigators did not properly record his statement and ultimately filed a ‘B report’, favouring the accused.
In his petition, Santhosh Kumar has sought transfer of the probe to the CID, alleging bias and negligence in the investigation.
The complaint has also raised broader concerns about regulation of church administration. Santhosh Kumar argued that cancellation of church membership amounts to denial of religious freedom and termed it a form of “social boycott.” He has urged the state government to frame clear guidelines governing the functioning of churches and provide legal remedies against arbitrary actions.
There was no immediate response from the police or representatives of the church regarding the allegations.