On 2 November 2025, in Shivnagar, Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh), tribals were reportedly pressured to convert through so-called “faith healing” sessions. Acting on a complaint from tribal resident Kailash Ninama, who alleged he was coerced to convert in exchange for promised healing, police arrested four individuals: Vikram Ninama, Jagdish Ninama, Mangilal Ninama, and Guddu alias Gudda Maida.
This report documents 47 incidents of tribal conversions recorded between 2021 and 2025, focusing on cases where economically vulnerable tribal families were allegedly lured or coerced into adopting Christianity.
#1 Four Held in Ratlam for Pressuring Tribals to Convert Through Faith Healing – 02 November 2025
In Shivnagar, Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh), four individuals were arrested after a complaint by tribal resident Kailash Ninama. The accused, Vikram Ninama, Jagdish Ninama, Mangilal Ninama, and Guddu alias Gudda Maida, were allegedly holding weekly “healing prayers” at a residence. Participants were told that praying to “Lord Jesus” would cure their ailments. Kailash Ninama stated he was manipulated into attending and later pressured to convert as a condition for healing. Police registered an FIR under relevant sections for inducing and deceiving people into conversion and arrested all four accused.
#2 Tribal Family’s Religious Change Causes Dispute in Jharkhand Village – 02 November 2025
In Tirla Kalyanpur village, Jharkhand, a tribal family Parmeshwar Munda, his wife Pokil Devi, and their son, adopted Christianity, causing unrest. The issue came to light when Parmeshwar, previously of the Sarna faith, immersed his traditional Sarna flag and clan deity into a river. Villagers held meetings to persuade the family to return, but Parmeshwar refused. Locals alleged he was influenced by Ram Kumar Mahli, who promised a disease-free and peaceful life through conversion. No legal action was reported in this incident.
#3 Gang Targeting Tribals for Conversion Arrested in Mirzapur – 30 September 2025
In Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, a gang led by Dev Sahayam Daniel Raj was arrested for targeting tribal families. The group allegedly lured people through “healing prayer meetings” and offers of financial aid. Around 70 people were reported to have already been converted, with 500 more being prepared. The gang focused on poor and tribal populations, using promises of economic help. Investigations revealed Daniel Raj was linked with the Indian Missionaries Society from Tamil Nadu and managed eight evangelists. Police arrested five members.
#4 Man Arrested for Converting Dalit and Tribal Communities in Gujarat – 28 September 2025
In Nadiad, Kheda district (Gujarat), Steven Macwan was arrested for converting Dalit and tribal people to Christianity by offering inducements. He was caught conducting a program where 59 individuals, including nine minors, were being converted. Macwan had been engaged in these activities for nearly three years and was suspected of receiving foreign funds. The local court remanded him to seven days of police custody following his arrest.
#5 Tribal Leader Threatened After Opposing Alleged Paid Conversions – 03 September 2025
In Bocharda village, Banswara (Rajasthan), tribal leader Kamlesh Damor was threatened after opposing alleged forced conversions. A group had reportedly offered tribal families ₹5,000 per month, free education, and medical treatment to convert. When Damor and other activists brought the accused, R.P. Patresh, to the police station, Patresh’s supporters arrived with sticks, assaulted the activists, and threatened Damor with death. A formal complaint was lodged at the Kasarwadi Police Station.
#6 Tribal Family Pressured to Convert Before Housing Construction – 01 July 2025
In Sugiyaa, Ramgarh (Jharkhand), tribal resident Sarwan Birhor alleged that his neighbours pressured his family to convert from Hinduism to Christianity to allow the construction of a house under a government scheme. Despite receiving an advance of ₹30,000, neighbours repeatedly obstructed construction, demanding conversion first. Birhor reported that several other families in the village had already converted months earlier. He submitted a formal complaint to the Mandu Block Development Officer.
#7 Widespread Conversion Mafia Uncovered in Rajasthan – 29 June 2025
Reports from multiple districts in Rajasthan, including Dungarpur and Kota, revealed large-scale conversion activities targeting poor and tribal communities. Methods included offers of monthly salaries, ration, clothes, housing, and cash payments from ₹3-8 lakhs for converting families. In a tragic case from Kota, a student committed suicide, leaving a note stating she was pressured to attend church for free tuition. In other areas, sewing machines and free books were used as inducements to attend religious gatherings.
#8 Tribal and Dalit Communities Convert in Bartalla Village – 27 May 2025
In Bartalla village, Giridih (Jharkhand), 40 people from tribal and Dalit communities converted from Hinduism to Christianity, continuing a trend that began a decade prior. Residents were reportedly influenced by claims that Christian prayer sessions could heal illnesses. A young tribal woman, Bhula, who converted in 2018, encouraged her relatives to follow. Converts stopped participating in Hindu traditions, causing concern among the local Hindu population. No legal action was reported.
#9 Preachers Arrested for Conversion Attempt in Odisha Village – 06 April 2025
In Jali village, Keonjhar (Odisha), seven Christian preachers were detained for attempting to convert the local tribal community. The group used loudspeakers and microphones to propagate their message and made derogatory remarks against Hinduism, which angered villagers. Authorities seized vehicles, auto-rickshaws, and loudspeakers used in the programme. A First Information Report (FIR) was registered, and the seven accused were taken into police custody. Two other individuals were reported to be at large.
#10 Conversion Programme Targeted 150 Tribals in Rajasthan – 06 March 2025
In the Karoti area of Sirohi District (Rajasthan), a religious conversion programme was organized at an agricultural well, targeting 100-150 tribal men and women. Four accused were promoting Christianity and giving misleading information against Hinduism. Bibles were found in their possession. The preachers told villagers they could cure illnesses through their religion and openly stated they were not afraid of any law. Police registered an FIR and took the four accused into custody.
#11 ‘Hallelujah’ Event Used in Attempt to Convert Tribal Families – 24 April 2025
In Chadhasahi village, Sundargarh (Odisha), around 20 Christian missionaries organized a “Hallelujah” event to convert 11 tribal families. They made villagers bathe in a stream, gave them new clothes, and prepared for a conversion ceremony. The plan was to convert over 100 people by offering food and clothes. Local social activists learned of the event and intervened to stop the attempt. The missionaries had arrived in three vehicles from nearby towns. No police action was reported in this account.
#12 Mission School Accused of Converting Tribal Students – 23 April 2025
In Takhatpur, Chhattisgarh, the Douglas Memorial School was accused of converting poor tribal children enrolled under the pretext of free education. The children were allegedly taught Christianity and pressured to convert, with some being trained to become pastors to propagate conversions in other tribal areas. The accusations included the misuse of missionary funds to promote religious conversion under the guise of education and healthcare. A complaint was registered with the Bilaspur Collector.
#13 Man Attempted to Convert Tribal Family with Inducements – 03 April 2025
In Shyampur Tappa, Sehore (Madhya Pradesh), Kailash Barela attempted to persuade a tribal family to adopt Christianity by offering inducements. The family resisted, leading to a dispute. Other villagers and Hindu organizations were informed. Locals claimed that Kailash had been targeting tribal families in the area for religious conversion over several years. Police registered an FIR against Kailash Barela under multiple legal sections.
#14 Tribals Targeted in Udaipur Conversion Raid – 16 February 2025
In Udaipur (Rajasthan), police raided a house in Munged Bhagora Fala following a complaint by an MP. Tribal residents were allegedly being converted to Christianity by missionaries who lured people with incentives. The incident highlighted reports that a large section of the ST-SC and tribal communities in Rajasthan has been targeted for conversion. Police detained the house owner couple along with 11 others for questioning. An anti-conversion bill was reportedly being proposed in the state assembly.
#15 Bhil Tribe Targeted by Missionaries in Raisen – 09 February 2025
In Ghetakchar, Raisen (Madhya Pradesh), Christian missionaries from Bhopal were accused of conducting religious conversions in a Bhil tribal hamlet. They allegedly lured villagers with promises of healthcare, education, and money. Hindu organizations reported the activities to authorities. Religious texts and conversion-related documents were seized. Allegations also included encroachment on forest land prior to the conversion activities. Police took the missionaries into custody for investigation.
#16 Hostel Warden Forced Tribal Girls to Read Bible – 28 January 2025
In a tribal girls’ hostel in Khargone (Madhya Pradesh), warden Rita Kharthe was accused of forcing class 4 and 5 students to read the Bible and perform Christian prayers at night. The students were also made to do hostel chores like washing utensils. Fifteen students left the hostel due to harassment but were beaten upon returning. During the investigation, Bibles and prayer notebooks were found. The warden was immediately removed, and the Block Education Officer recommended strict action.
#17 Missionaries Arrested for Converting Tribals in Betul – 21 January 2025
In Bhaisaghat, Betul (Madhya Pradesh), Christian missionaries Saibu Thakre and Ravi Tandrilkar were arrested for luring tribal villagers with promises of government jobs, free medical treatment, employment, and money to convert to Christianity. Villagers were prohibited from performing Hindu rituals and pressured to abandon their faith. A witness, Ramprasad Dhadse, reported the inducements and coercion to the police. An FIR was registered, and the two accused were arrested.
#18 Mass Conversion Centre Uncovered in Sidhi Village – 19 January 2025
In Mayapur village, Sidhi (Madhya Pradesh), a house behind a secondary school served as a centre for mass religious conversions. Tribal and socially backward community members were gathered and encouraged to convert from Hinduism to Christianity. Christian religious books were found at the site. The accused, Babulal Jaiswal, was arrested for organizing and promoting these conversions, which caused local unrest and concern among Hindu organizations.
#19 UP Court Jails Christian Couple for Attempted Conversion – 24 January 2025
A special court in Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, sentenced Pastor Jose Pappachan and his wife Sheeja to five years’ imprisonment and a ₹25,000 fine each on 22 January 2025 for allegedly attempting to convert Dalit and tribal residents under the state’s anti-conversion law. The case stemmed from a 2023 complaint claiming the couple targeted poor families and organised a mass conversion event. The Allahabad High Court later granted them bail, ruling that distributing Bibles or holding community meals does not constitute allurement. Christian groups criticised the verdict, noting rising arrests under Uttar Pradesh’s amended 2024 law.
#20 Prayer Meeting Attempted to Convert 40 Tribals – 01 December 2024
In Amarai Sanjay Nagar, Madhya Pradesh, a prayer meeting at Shivkumar Jharwade’s house attempted to convert around 40 tribal men, women, and children. When police and activists arrived, a scuffle occurred. Three boxes of Bibles were found inside the locked house. Some attendees stated they joined voluntarily. An FIR was registered under the Religious Freedom Act against Shivkumar Jharwade, Rachna Goswami, Priyanka Pillai, and Pratibha Maravi.
#21 Case Registered Against 10 for Tribal Conversions – 28 December 2024
In Kerpani, Burhanpur (Madhya Pradesh), ten individuals were accused of conducting Christian prayer sessions in a pandal at a local house. Tribal villagers were promised healing from illnesses, free medical treatment, and other incentives to convert from Hinduism. The accused pressured them to leave Hindu practices. The Nepanagar police registered an FIR under the Religious Freedom Act against the ten accused individuals.
#22 Tribal and Dalit Communities in Banka Shift to Christianity – 27 December 2024
In several villages of Shambhuganj block, Banka (Bihar), hundreds from Scheduled Caste, Tribal, and Extremely Backward Class communities abandoned Sanatan Dharma for Christianity. Most were illiterate and lived in poor conditions. Converts reported experiencing cultural, mental, and physical peace, recovery from chronic diseases, and freedom from supernatural fears. No legal action was reported in connection with these conversions.
#23 Three Arrested for Attempting Tribal Conversions in Odisha – 26 December 2024
In Gobardhanpur, Balasore (Odisha), three individuals—Gobind Singh, Subasini Singh, and Sukanti Singh—were caught attempting to convert tribal families to Christianity. Villagers and a local organization, Debsena, tied them to trees and beat them before handing them over to Nilgiri police. A Christian conversion event with a “Merry Christmas” cake was found at an accused’s home. The three were taken into police custody.
#24 Coaching Center Used to Convert Tribal Children – 16 September 2024
In Betul (Madhya Pradesh), a coaching center was used to conduct religious gatherings aimed at converting tribal and poor children. Pastor Rajo Thomas, Jyoti, and Pooja Gohe were accused of subjecting minors to mind-influencing sessions under the guise of coaching. Around a dozen children were present. An FIR was registered under the Madhya Pradesh Religious Freedom Act and the Atrocities Act against the three accused.
#25 Christian Couple Accused of Targeting Tribals in Odisha – 09 September 2024
In Joda, Kendujhar (Odisha), a Christian couple from Jharkhand was detained for attempting to convert local tribal residents in Banspani village. They allegedly lured tribal families and children with food and chocolates to attend prayer meetings, promising freedom from illness and poverty. The activities caused local tension after it was discovered several families had already converted. Joda police detained the couple for questioning.
#26 Tribal Gathered for Conversion Program in Lakhia – 28 July 2024
In Lakhia, Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh), tribal residents were gathered in a makeshift church in a field for Christian prayer sessions. Accused Prabhu Machar, associated with an NGO from Delhi, was found conducting prayers, allegedly persuading 200-300 people to convert under the pretext of healing and spiritual benefits. An FIR was registered, the accused was taken into custody, and religious materials were seized.
#27 Missionary Accused of Luring Tharu Tribals in Lakhimpur Kheri – 04 July 2024
In Krishnanagar, Lakhimpur Kheri (Uttar Pradesh), Pastor Prem Bahadur Rana was accused of persuading Tharu tribal villagers to convert to Christianity. Locals claimed missionaries have long been active in the Indo-Nepal border area, luring poor tribal and Nishad families with money, marriage promises, and assurances of healing. Several conversions were reported to have already occurred. No police action was noted.
#28 Conversion Attempt on Tribal Family Under Pretext of Healing – 21 November 2023
In Mamaria, Khunti (Jharkhand), Christian missionaries gathered to pray for a disabled child from a Sarna tribal family and attempted to convert them during the session. The child’s uncle, Chhotan Bhengra, noticed and opposed it. Villagers alerted local police and administration, who inspected the site and assured action to prevent the forced conversion.
#29 Tribals Lured with Cash and Grain to Convert – 09 September 2023
In Khandavad, Sehore (Madhya Pradesh), unnamed Christian community members attempted to convert tribal villagers by offering inducements of ₹20,000 in cash and half a quintal each of wheat and rice to those willing to convert. The accused had a history of luring villagers with money. Police registered an FIR and investigated the incident.
#30 Court Sentences Three for Luring Tribals into Christianity – 19 July 2023
In Bisouli, Jhabua (Madhya Pradesh), a court sentenced Father Jam Singh, Pastor Ansingh Ninama, and assistant Mangu Bhuria to two years of rigorous imprisonment and a ₹50,000 fine each. On 26 December 2021, they had called tribal members Tetia Baria and Surti Bai to a prayer meeting and persuaded them to convert through promises of free education and medical treatment.
#31 FIR Against Pastor for Luring Tribal Family – 23 January 2023
In Hatuniya, Indore (Madhya Pradesh), an FIR was registered against Pastor Rai Singh and six associates for attempting to convert a tribal family. The pastor had given a tribal man, Man Singh Bilwal, water and medicines when he was ill, claimed the Christian God healed him, and then asked him to remove Hindu idols. The missionaries offered money, religious books, and promises of free education and health facilities for conversion. Police took some accused into custody.
#32 Two Pastors Attempted to Convert Tribal Family – 28 June 2023
In Chandli, Giridih (Jharkhand), pastors Ramlal Hansda and Sanjay Marandi organized a prayer meeting at a tribal family’s home and attempted to convert four family members: Gondwa Baske, Pradeep Baske, Sheila Marandi, and Chhotki Marandi. The pastors, from Deoghar and Bihar, were detained by police for attempting the conversion.
#33 Nepali Missionaries’ Secret Conversion Meetings in Supaul – 27 June 2023
In Basantpur Block, Supaul (Bihar), Nepali Christian missionaries conducted secret meetings at the homes of previously converted families to lure poor Dalit, Mahadalit, and Tribal communities. They showed how adopting Christianity had supposedly improved lives. Participation required prior registration, and victims were targeted with promises of better living standards, food, and education. No police action was reported.
#34 Three Arrested for Attempting to Convert Tribal Villagers – 12 June 2023
In Hardhi Tola, Shahdol (Madhya Pradesh), three individuals—Raja Mungeria, Lal Chand Baiga, and Dharmendra Baiga—were arrested for luring tribal villagers into collective religious conversion through inducements. This followed a recent similar case in the district. Police registered an FIR under the Madhya Pradesh Religious Freedom Act and arrested the accused.
#35 40 Tribals Rescued from Forced Conversion Attempt – 13 May 2023
In Shahdol (Madhya Pradesh), police rescued around 40 tribal villagers who were confined in a house in Ghraula Mohalla. Members of the Christian community were allegedly persuading them to convert. Neighbors alerted police, who found a large quantity of conversion-related literature. Four accused from Balaghat, Umaria, and Pali were detained.
#36 Three Arrested for Forcing Tribals to Convert in Dewas – 08 May 2023
In Mansinghpura, Dewas (Madhya Pradesh), three people, including a woman, were arrested for luring and persuading members of the tribal community to convert to Christianity through inducements and religious teachings. Hindu organizations informed police after receiving information. The three accused were subsequently arrested.
#37 200 Tribals Targeted for Conversion at Jodhpur Church – 18 March 2023
In St. Andrews Church, Jodhpur (Rajasthan), approximately 200 rural tribal and poor Hindus, including women and children, were reportedly being motivated to convert to Christianity during a 7-day prayer program through offers of money, scooters, and jobs. Police evacuated all people from inside the church.
#38 Dozens of Tribals in Palamu Convert Under Missionary Influence – 19 October 2022
In Devi Mandap Tola, Palamu (Jharkhand), around two dozen tribal and Dalit villagers were converted to Christianity under the influence of a woman employed at a Christian missionary hospital. She persuaded them that conversion would bring peace, health, and protection from illnesses and supernatural fears, with some promised free education and employment. No legal action was noted.
#39 Tribal Areas of Chhindwara Targeted for Conversion – 26 September 2022
In Chhindwara (Madhya Pradesh), reports emerged of Christian missionaries influencing tribals in Harrai, Batkakhapa, and Tamia to convert to Christianity. Converted tribals were also accused of encouraging original tribal members to change their religion. No specific police action was reported.
#40 Missionaries Accused of Luring Families into Conversion – 16 March 2022
In Banapidhi village, Jharkhand, six families from tribal and other communities were lured into prayer and healing sessions under the pretext of illness treatment and gradually converted. Missionaries claimed the conversion happened earlier to avoid legal consequences. Tribal leaders warned such activities threaten tribal identity. No police case was reported.
#41 Tribals Pressured to Convert in Betul – 13 March 2022
In the Hamalapur area of Betul (Madhya Pradesh), tribals Deendayal Dhurve and Manoj Sahu were called under the pretext of treating an illness and pressured to convert during a prayer session. A pamphlet was given, and it was claimed that Hinduism treats tribals as inferior. A verbal dispute escalated into a physical fight. Police filed an FIR covering forced conversion and assault.
#42 Four Missionaries Arrested in Betul for Forced Conversion – 19 February 2022
In Udama Village, Betul (Madhya Pradesh), four individuals—Saibu Ivne, Vijay Jadhav, Ruthbai Jadhav, and Denny Maul—were arrested for attempting to convert tribal families by luring them with false promises and encouraging them to abandon their original religion. Bibles and religious literature were seized. Two accused were from Maharashtra. All four admitted to the allegations during questioning.
#43 22 Tribal Families Converted in Garhwa – 01 February 2022
In Hesatu Village, Garhwa (Jharkhand), 22 Korwa tribal families, previously of the Sarna religion, were converted to Christianity. A large church was constructed on government land, allegedly with foreign funds, and locals were invited to services. Some villagers claimed hardships eased after converting, while media suggested a systematic targeting of tribals. No police action was reported.
#44 Four Individuals Caught Pressuring Tribals to Convert – 12 January 2022
In the Ichhawar area, Sehore (Madhya Pradesh), four Christians were accused of pressuring tribal families to convert by offering free education, jobs, medical treatment, and financial support. The complainant and witnesses stated the accused used religious items for persuasion. Police registered an FIR and initiated an investigation.
#45 Over 150 Tribal Families Face Coercive Conversions – 06 December 2021
In Mahua Toli, Ranchi (Jharkhand), over 150 tribal families of Sarna faith were reportedly converted to Christianity through persistent inducements and promises of facilities from missionaries. Converted residents were seen attending prayers at a local church. Villagers stated missionaries offered various benefits and family assistance. No legal action was noted.
#46 Six Detained During Forced Conversion of Tribal Family – 20 November 2021
In Ganjhudi Tola, Ramgarh (Jharkhand), six individuals, including one woman, were detained by villagers when they attempted to convert the tribal family of Karma Karmali. The accused offered false promises, including the birth of a son, targeting the family which had four daughters. Villagers opposed the attempt and contacted Kuju police.
#47 Nurse Removed After Attempting to Convert Tribals During Survey – 22 May 2021
In Bajna, Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh), Nurse Sandhya Tiwari, a member of a Rapid Response Team conducting a door-to-door health survey for COVID-19, was accused of promoting Christianity under the survey’s pretext. Following the incident, the Block Medical Officer removed her from her duties.
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