Bangalore, October 25, 2023 (CCBI): In a significant development, the Vatican has approved the process to begin the cause for the canonization of Kanteshwar Digal and his companions, who were martyred for their faith during the 2008 anti-Christian violence in Kandhamal, Odisha. The 35 martyrs consisted of 24 men and 11 women.
The CCBI 34th Plenary Assembly, held from January 24–30, 2023, voted and approved the request of Most Rev. John Barwa, S.V.D., Archbishop of Cuttack–Bhubaneswar, to initiate the beatification process of Kandhamal martyrs.
After careful consideration and prayerful discernment, the Dicastery for the Cause of Saints has granted the Nihil Obstat, which signifies that there is no objection to commencing the cause for the beatification of Kanteshwar Digal and Companions. The Nihil Obstat, granted by the Dicastery for the Cause of Saints in Rome, affirms that there are no doctrinal or moral impediments to investigating the life, virtues and sanctity of the Servant of God Kanteshwar Digal and Companions.
Violence against the Odisha Christians erupted in Kandhamal in 2008. More than 100 people were killed, and at least 64,000 were displaced. More than 300 churches were destroyed in the district, 6,000 Christian houses were destroyed, and 56,000 were rendered homeless.