BBC News Online: World: South Asia

Hindus arrested over church attack

Police said activists attacked the church at Hitkal village and assaulted worshippers during Sunday prayers.

They said the men demanded the priest end alleged efforts to convert local villagers, who are mainly Hindu, to Christianity.

The Karnantaka Home Minister M Kharge said police protection had been given to churches in the area following the attack.

Bajrang Dal has denied that any of its members were involved in the attack.

A spokesman for the group said he attack was a result of local resentment against the issue of conversion.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service