Christians local to Mahima Betta in Doddasagarahalli village claimed that the government acted under pressure from right-wing Hindu groups after being told the statue removal was due to the Christians were encroaching on government land.

The 4.5 acres of land in question has been used by the local Christians for nearly 40 years without any prior issues. During the Lent season, Indian Christians also use the area for the Way of the Cross and prayer gatherings. Rumors were causing tensions as those hostile to Christianity claimed that the area was used for conversions.

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