Gujarat : VHP Alleges Forced Conversions in Gandhinagar, Police Find No Evidence

GANDHINAGAR, GUJARAT : Members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal created a stir in Gandhinagar on Sunday night, alleging that 15 Hindu laborers from Dahod were forcibly converted to Christianity. The allegations stemmed from a reported prayer meeting at the Shalom Prayer Meeting Center in Sector-5.

The Hindu organizations claimed religious working-class families were lured and pressured into converting at the center located in the basement of a commercial complex. Raising slogans of “Jai Shri Ram” (hail Lord Rama), they approached the Sector-7 police station with the laborers, continuing their chants there as well.

According to Bajrang Dal coordinator Shaktisinh Jhala, they suspect around 15 Hindus were targeted. Sunil Trivedi, representing both VHP and Bajrang Dal, filed a written complaint demanding action against the alleged perpetrators and the “converted” individuals.

However, Gandhinagar Superintendent of Police (SP) Ravi Teja Vasamsetty refuted the claims. While acknowledging the complaint, he clarified that investigations revealed a Christian prayer meeting frequented by Hindus as well.

“The police investigation has not found any evidence of forced conversions,” SP Vasamsetty stated. “The Indian Constitution allows individuals the freedom to practice any religion they choose. Currently, further investigation is underway.”

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding religious conversions in India. While freedom of religion is a fundamental right, allegations of forced conversions remain a sensitive issue, often sparking social unrest. The police investigation in this case will be crucial in determining the veracity of the claims and ensuring the safety of all involved.