In a comprehensive enforcement drive, Uttar Pradesh police conducted multiple operations throughout October 2025 targeting unlawful religious conversions. Authorities arrested numerous individuals accused of luring, coercing, and inducing people, particularly from vulnerable communities, to convert to Christianity through various deceptive tactics, including monetary incentives, false promises of employment and education, and psychological manipulation.

The crackdown involved the recovery of significant evidence, including Bibles, religious materials, and digital communications documenting conversion activities. Below are accounts of the 11 key incidents reported during this period.

#1 Four Arrested for Luring People to Religious Conversion in Jaunpur – 31 October 2025

In Kerakat, Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, police arrested Geeta Devi, Ranjana Kumari, Sonu, and Vijay Kumar for systematically luring members of the Sarki community and surrounding villages into converting to Christianity. Evidence recovered included photographs of Jesus Christ, copies of the Bible, books containing hymns in Bhojpuri and Hindi, and documents detailing church rituals and practices. Investigators also discovered extensive chat histories on social media platforms containing photographs, videos, and messages promoting Christianity and conversion tactics. All four accused were produced before the Jaunpur court and remanded to jail under Section 1961 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Section 351 of the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Act, 2021.

#2 Attempt to Convert Religion in Basti District – 28 October 2025

In Parasrampur, Basti District of UP, Ramdayal Sharma, aged 60, was arrested following a formal complaint from Ramanand, a resident of Tirukha village. The complainant alleged that Sharma targeted Hindu women with monetary inducements, pressuring them to abandon their faith and convert to Christianity. The accused employed systematic tactics to exploit vulnerable members of the community through financial lures. Police registered a First Information Report (FIR) and proceeded with legal action against the accused, who was formally charged under the provisions of the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Act, 2021.

#3 Pastor Among Three Arrested in Bareilly for Illegal Conversions – 21 October 2025

In Rohilkhand, Bareilly, Pastor Sumit Masey, Amit Masey, Sarita, and Satyapal were apprehended for conducting organized conversion activities targeting economically disadvantaged sections of society. The accused organized special prayer meetings and distributed Christian religious texts to lure poor Hindu women and children. Complainant Rishabh Thakur reported that the accused deliberately targeted vulnerable populations through systematic religious indoctrination. An FIR was lodged at Baradari police station under Section 299 and Sections 3 and 51 of the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021. All accused were produced before the court and subsequently remanded to judicial custody.

#4 Phulpur Police Bust Christian Conversion Racket in Prayagraj – 18 October 2025

In Haribhanpur Village, Phulpur, Prayagraj, police dismantled an organized conversion network involving Ramkumar Pal, Ramsharan Gautam, Tribhuwan Gautam, and Rohit Gautam. The accused were actively converting members of the Hindu community through Christian missionary operations. When local resident Shantanu Tiwari protested these activities, the accused assaulted him with an iron rod, causing injuries. During the violent incident, the accused also snatched the mobile phone of Tiwari’s companion. An FIR was registered under Sections 352 and 1961 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Sections 3 and 51 of the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion Act, 2021. Three accused were arrested, while Rohit Gautam remains absconding.

#5 Hindu Family Pressured into Conversion in Greater Noida – 18 October 2025

In Delta-2 Sector, Surajpur, Greater Noida, a Wipro employee Kapil Garg and his wife Ritu Garg filed a complaint against four Christian missionaries – Anuj Kumar, Sunpreet, Archana Gogia, and Sunita for persistent attempts to coerce them into religious conversion. The accused repeatedly visited the victims’ residence, offering financial incentives and actively persuading them to renounce Hinduism and embrace Christianity. This systematic pattern of harassment and inducement constituted unlawful conversion attempts. Police registered an FIR and initiated investigations into the coordinated conversion network targeting affluent Hindu families.

#6 Man and Woman Caught Attempting Illegal Religious Conversions in Agra – 15 October 2025

In Awas Vikas Colony, Jagdishpura, Agra, Achyut Kumar Devdi from Arunachal Pradesh and Prasanna Dhan from Jharkhand were arrested for conducting illegal religious conversion activities. The accused were distributing literature promoting Christianity and visiting residential areas to indoctrinate Hindu families. Victim Virendra Gautam filed a written complaint stating that the accused visited his home and provided him with Christian religious materials. This evidence of systematic proselytization led to their arrest under provisions of the anti-conversion law. Police registered a formal case against both accused and initiated prosecution proceedings.

#7 Accused of Offering Inducements for Religious Conversion in Azamgarh – 12 October 2025

In Singhwara Khas, Azamgarh District, a six-member group including Suryabhan Sharma, Nirmala Sharma, Ankit Sharma, Aman Sharma, Rampyare Gaur, and Sunita Gaur was implicated in systematic conversion activities. The accused lured people into conversion through deceptive tactics including organizing “satsangs” (religious gatherings) where they promised free medical treatment and educational facilities at Christian-affiliated institutions. The accused deliberately exploited people’s vulnerability and health concerns to engineer religious conversions. Police registered cases against all six individuals and commenced investigation into their extensive conversion network across the district.

#8 Mass Religious Conversions Conducted Under Guise of Healing Meeting in Mirzapur – 12 October 2025

In Basahi Kala Village, Lalganj, Mirzapur, five individuals, including a pastor and a Christian missionary schoolteacher, were detained for orchestrating mass conversions disguised as healing prayer meetings. The accused exploited people’s medical vulnerabilities by claiming that prayer would cure illnesses and supernatural afflictions. Through a combination of inducements, threats, and religious propaganda, the accused successfully converted numerous villagers. The systematic manipulation of faith and health concerns constituted organized conversion activity. Police apprehended all five accused, including a staff member from a Christian missionary-run school, bringing the conversion network to light.

#9 Two Arrested for Converting People by Luring with Money in Chitrakoot – 10 October 2025

In Raipura, Chitrakoot District, Bharat Verma and Ramvishal Savita were arrested for conducting year-long systematic conversion activities targeting poor Hindu families in Ghunuwa village. The accused employed multiple tactics including monetary inducements, derogatory remarks directed at Hindu deities, prayer meetings featuring Bible recitations, and sustained psychological pressure. The perpetrators deliberately targeted economically disadvantaged communities and created religious doubt through disparagement of Hinduism. Police took both accused into custody and registered formal charges. Authorities continue searching for the third accused, Mahesh, who remains absconding.

#10 Man Arrested for Luring People with Money and Jobs to Convert to Christianity in Ballia – 3 October 2025

In Bhimpura, Ballia District, Vinod Kumar, aged 48, was arrested for conducting large-scale conversion propaganda in the Harijan Basti area of Baradih Lawaipatti. The accused, working with external accomplices, systematically distributed Christian propaganda materials while promoting conversion as a path to financial security, employment opportunities, and housing benefits. Kumar actively encouraged residents to destroy Hindu religious idols and embrace Christianity. He falsely promised tangible economic advantages to vulnerable community members. Police registered an FIR under Sections 196 and 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Section 351 of the Prohibition of Religious Conversion Act, with Kumar subsequently produced before court for formal prosecution.

#11 Attempt to Convert Religion: Arrest in Jaunpur for Luring 40 People with Money – 1 October 2025

In Rampur, Jaunpur, Harishchandra Gautam, son of Phoolchand Gautam, and an unnamed pastor were arrested for attempting to convert approximately 40 people – 25 women and 15 men through monetary inducements. The accused conducted organized prayer sessions and distributed religious materials at Gautam’s residence. Investigators recovered significant evidence including a Bible, a picture of Jesus Christ, a cross, and video recordings of Jesus Christ prayers stored on the accused’s mobile phone. The coordinated nature of the conversion attempt involving a pastor and substantial financial resources indicated an organized operation. Police arrested Harishchandra Gautam and filed formal charges.

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The post Inside UP’s October Crackdown: 11 Cases Expose Organised Christian Conversion Networks appeared first on The Commune.

The truest test of character isn’t how a candidate speaks to a crowd, but what they are willing to betray for its approval. J.D. Vance has failed that test profoundly, offering up his own wife’s dignity as a pawn in his political game.

At a recent campaign event, the U.S. Vice Presidential candidate sparked outrage when he said he hopes his wife, Usha, will “eventually” embrace Christianity. The remark, delivered casually to supporters, wasn’t just a personal confession; it was a calculated nod to the Christian nationalist base that forms the core of the MAGA movement.

It’s the same base that mocked and vilified Usha Vance, a practicing Hindu, as soon as her husband became Donald Trump’s running mate. Online trolls branded her a “demon worshipper,” and instead of condemning the bigotry, Vance chose silence. He didn’t defend her faith or call out the ugliness. He waited it out. And now, months later, he’s publicly reframing her as someone on the path to conversion – someone he “hopes” will eventually accept the Christian gospel.

That isn’t love, that many claim to be. It is plain political self-preservation dressed up as faith.

What makes it worse is that Usha Vance has always spoken openly and gracefully about her Hindu upbringing. In a 2024 interview, sitting right beside her husband, she talked about how she grew up in a devout religious household and credited her parents’ Hindu faith for shaping their goodness and values. “It’s one of the things that made them such good parents,” she said.

JD is a class A hypocrite. What he said about Usha’s faith in the past and now… pic.twitter.com/LTnVvkoSP2

— Nirmalya Dutta (@NonsensicalNemo) October 30, 2025

JD himself, in that same conversation, admitted that his wife “was not raised Christian; she is not Christian,” and praised her for supporting his own baptism. But as the campaign trail intensified, so did the need to sanitize their interfaith marriage for a voter base that views non-Christian identity with suspicion. Suddenly, Usha was no longer described as a practicing Hindu, just a supportive spouse who “comes to church” and might someday be “moved by the gospel.”

This transformation isn’t exactly spiritual; it is just sheer political opportunism by JD Vance.

Nothing exposes a man’s moral backbone like how he reacts when his own family is unfairly targeted. And JD Vance’s reaction – silence, followed by subtle erasure is moral bankruptcy disguised as devotion. His wife’s faith became a liability, so he edited it out. He didn’t stand beside her when she was mocked. Now, he’s trying to overwrite her identity altogether.

Leadership isn’t tested in campaign speeches; it’s revealed in these moments of quiet cowardice. When trolls attack your wife’s faith and you respond not with defense but with appeasement, you reveal what kind of man you are. And when you start reshaping your family’s truth to fit the expectations of an intolerant crowd, you show exactly how far you’ll go for power.

“We decided to raise our children Christian,” Vance said at the rally. But that decision, framed as mutual, feels less like family harmony and more like political calculus.

In an interview to NDTV during their visit to India, Usha is heard talking about her children’s curiosity in history, “Well, right now, as I mentioned, they’re very into military history. So, there are a lot of questions about that. Um, but my children are also this is maybe not specific to the Taj Mahal, but they’re very interested in the Mahabharatha and the Ramayana and stories like that. So, they have lots of questions about that and they’re always looking for references everywhere they go.”

JD Vance is just pandering to the MAGA base, now indistinguishable from the alt-right Groypers by throwing his wife and children under the ideological bus.

If one can’t defend the dignity of the woman who built her life with you, how will they ever defend the dignity of a nation? Silence in the face of hate isn’t neutrality, it’s complicity. And rewriting one’s own wife’s faith to please a mob is not leadership. It’s surrender.

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On 15 October 2025, in Beed, Maharashtra, Petrus Gaikwad, Superintendent of Beed District Jail, was accused of denying food and water to inmates, physically assaulting them, and allegedly pressuring them to convert to Christianity.

Following these allegations, the Maharashtra Prison Department transferred Gaikwad to Nagpur Central Prison as Deputy Superintendent on “administrative grounds.”

This report compiles nine major incidents between 2015 and 2025 in which government-aided officers or employees were accused of luring or pressuring economically disadvantaged individuals to adopt Christianity.

#1 Jail Superintendent Accused of Inmate Coercion (15 October 2025)

In Beed, Maharashtra, Petrus Gaikwad, the Superintendent of Beed District Jail, was accused of denying food and water to inmates, physically assaulting them, and pressuring them to convert to Christianity. A local MLA further alleged that Gaikwad replaced national symbols on jail walls with Bible verses. Following the allegations, the Maharashtra Prison Department transferred Gaikwad to Nagpur Central Prison as a Deputy Superintendent on “administrative grounds.” The officer had previously faced controversy in Jaigaon prison following the death of a Dalit inmate under his supervision.

#2 Dausa Church Prayer Meeting Sparks Clash (29 June 2025)

A prayer meeting at the Agaye Fellowship Church in Dausa, Rajasthan, led to a clash after allegations surfaced that it was aimed at converting around 100 Hindu attendees. The accused included two Rajasthan government officials—an Assistant Accounts Officer and a Block Development Officer, both named Verma—along with Pastor Thomas George. When activists arrived to protest, a heated argument escalated into a physical altercation inside the church. Local residents claimed the group had been systematically converting people for over a decade. Dausa police confirmed that the government officials would be questioned.

#3 Schoolgirls Taken for Prayers Without Consent (02 May 2025)

In Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, a government nurse named Bhavani, a pastor, and a van driver were accused of taking approximately 40 schoolgirls from a government school without parental consent. The children were transported to an illegal prayer hall where they were allegedly forced to kneel and participate in Christian prayers, being told that “Jesus is the only God.” Upon discovering the situation, parents confronted the accused, leading to a physical altercation. Although the children were returned and a complaint was lodged, the police had not registered an FIR at the time of reporting.

#4 Government Teacher Arrested for Conversion Meeting (16 March 2025)

In Singrauli district, Madhya Pradesh, police raided a conversion meeting in Karsua Raja village, finding over 50 villagers in attendance. A government school teacher, Kamlesh Saket, and another individual, Arbind Saket, were accused of organizing the gathering and encouraging those present to convert to Christianity. The police intervention came after receiving a tip-off about the ongoing activities. Several Bibles and religious books were seized from the scene. Following the raid, the Mada police arrested both accused individuals.

#5 IPS Officer’s Religious Promotion Goes Viral (15 February 2025)

Kerala IPS officer Manoj Abraham, who serves as the Director of the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau, faced scrutiny after his participation in a Christian event went viral on social media. Posts highlighted that the senior police official was promoting Christianity while holding a significant government post, suggesting a potential conflict of interest. The incident sparked debate online about the conduct of public servants and their engagement in religious promotion. No official action was reported in connection with the incident.

Kerala Christian Manoj Abraham is an IPS officer who is Director of the Vigilance and Anti Corruption Bureau. He can be seen promoting Christianity. pic.twitter.com/6JrDZdlT1W

— Rakesh Krishnan Simha (@ByRakeshSimha) February 15, 2024

#6 ‘Negative Energy’ Prayer in Govt Office (11 November 2023)

Bindu, the District Child Development Officer in Thrissur, Kerala, organized a special one-minute prayer session before office hours to “remove negative energy.” The session allegedly forced staff, including contract employees, to participate, with one contract employee instructed to wear formal Christian attire. The office head stated the prayer was prompted by unusual office events, including employee resignations. The incident prompted higher authorities to order an inquiry, with the Deputy Collector instructed to investigate and submit a report to clarify the facts.

#7 Police Officer Proselytizes at Sikh Shrine (30 August 2023)

A Punjab Police officer was at the center of controversy after a video surfaced showing him performing what were described as Christian religious activities inside the Shri Darbar Sahib complex in Amritsar. The video depicted the officer holding an elderly man’s stomach, placing a hand on his head, and instructing him to touch his feet, while also gesturing to two boys. The officer was accused of promoting Christianity and criticizing authorities for inaction on conversion. The officer later claimed the video was filmed at a different location. No disciplinary action was reported.

#8 SC Commission Chairman Accused of Encouraging Conversions (05 November 2022)

Victor Prasad, the Chairman of the Andhra Pradesh State Scheduled Caste Commission, was accused of encouraging church planting and religious conversions. He was also alleged to have directed the Bapatla District SP to invoke the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act against those opposing an unauthorized church’s construction. Further accusations included derogatory social media posts about Mahatma Gandhi and instructing district authorities to install statues of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in defiance of court and government orders. No official action was reported against him.

#9 IAS Officer Warned Over Preaching Activities (30 January 2015)

The Tamil Nadu government issued a warning to IAS officer C. Umashankar, directing him to cease his “preaching and propagating activities” over concerns they could cause communal disharmony. The officer, who described himself as a “disciple of Jesus,” had conducted over 850 prayer meetings since 2008. While some groups accused him of attempted conversions, Umashankar denied these allegations, stating he only preached within Christian churches. The government’s instruction was based on the potential for his actions to incite communal tension.

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The country saw several instances of crackdown on illegal religious conversion in the past month. This report details 15 separate incidents of alleged unlawful religious conversion occurring in the state of Uttar Pradesh throughout September 2025, as compiled from various Indian news sources.

The documented cases consistently follow a pattern, accusing evangelical Christian groups and individuals of systematically targeting impoverished, tribal, and Dalit communities. The methods of inducement include promises of miraculous healing, financial aid, job opportunities, and educational support.

In response, law enforcement agencies across multiple districts have taken action, made numerous arrests and registering cases under the stringent Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act. These events have sparked significant legal and social discourse on religious freedom and coercion in the region.

#1 Mirzapur Conversion Racket Busted

On 30 September 2025, Mirzapur police uncovered a major inter-state religious conversion racket, arresting five individuals, including the alleged mastermind, Dev Sahayam Daniel Raj from Tamil Nadu. The gang was accused of systematically targeting poor, tribal, and underprivileged families, luring them with money, sewing training, and “healing prayer meetings” to convert them to Christianity. Investigations revealed the group had already converted nearly 70 people and was in advanced preparations to convert 500 more. A case was registered at the Ahraura police station, and a probe has been initiated to uncover the gang’s funding sources and wider network across state lines.

#2 Gorakhpur Women Arrested for Conversion

On 29 September 2025, in the Sahjanwa area of Gorakhpur, police arrested two women, Lakshmi Yadav and Roshni, for allegedly operating a religious conversion racket. The accused, a beauty parlor operator and her aide, were reported to have lured poor villagers by promising miraculous cures for illnesses and a better life through their spiritual practices. Lakshmi allegedly used a handkerchief in fake healing acts and offered hopes of jobs and money to convince people to read the Bible. Police raided a house in Sahjanwa, arrested the duo, and recovered religious materials related to conversion activities.

#3 Fake Healing Gatherings in Lucknow

In 28 September 2025, Nigohan police in Lucknow arrested a man named Malkhan for allegedly orchestrating religious conversions through fraudulent “Changnai Sabhas” (healing meetings). A convert since 2016, Malkhan used a hall on his farmland as a church to lure Dalit women and children from nearby villages. He performed staged healing acts, such as claiming to cure epilepsy, and offered money to persuade families to adopt Christianity. Using a WhatsApp group named “Yeshu Changnai Sabha,” he spread his influence and conducted baptisms. Police arrested him and launched an investigation into his financial sources and conversion network.

#4 Mass Conversion Attempt in Gorakhpur Village

On 28 September 2025, police intervened in a mass conversion attempt in Bhagoura village, Sahjanwa, Gorakhpur, where approximately 100 women had been gathered inside a house. Members of the Christian community were allegedly carrying out collective conversions at the location. Upon receiving information, law enforcement reached the scene and detained four to five individuals accused of orchestrating the event. An investigation was launched to determine the scope of the operation and the methods used to gather and influence the villagers, highlighting concerns over large-scale, organized conversion activities in rural areas.

#5 Charge Sheet in Kundawali Village Case

On 27 September 2025, police submitted a charge sheet to the court against four accused—Anju, Hridesh Kumar (alias Vicky Pastor), Neetu, and Surendra Pastor—in a conversion case from Kundawali village, Islamnagar. The incident, which occurred on 26 August 2025, involved individuals from Kasganj and Bisauli gathering villagers to conduct Christian prayers and lure them into conversion. Investigations revealed that Pastor Surendra, the alleged mastermind, had already converted over 200 people using financial temptations. The accused pressured villagers by repeatedly visiting their homes and conducting prayers, leading to about 30 conversions before police action was taken.

#6 Marital Fraud and Coercion in Firozabad

On 24 September 2025, in the Tundla area of Firozabad, a case was registered against Brijmohan (alias B.M. Masi) and his family members for allegedly forcing his wife, Jamuna Devi, into religious conversion following a fraudulent marriage. The complainant stated that 11 years after marrying under Hindu rituals, she discovered her husband had concealed his Christian identity. She accused him of assaulting her for worshipping Hindu deities, forcing their daughters to participate in Christian practices, and promising benefits like free education and foreign money if they converted. Police have begun an investigation into the assault and forced conversion allegations.

#7 Tension Over Conversion Gathering in Basantpur

On 22 September 2025, tension erupted in Mohad Ward, near the Shivnath River in Basantpur, Chhattisgarh, when 15-20 people from the Christian community gathered for prayers. Local villagers opposed the gathering, alleging it was a religious conversion meeting intended to lure people into Christianity. The situation required police intervention from the Basantpur police station. The matter was ultimately resolved on the spot through counseling and dialogue, preventing further escalation. This incident underscores the social friction and communal sensitivities surrounding conversion activities in the region.

#8 Eight Arrested in Hardoi for Inducements

On 22 September 2025, in Bhauptuwa village, Adampur, Hardoi, police arrested eight individuals, with Lal Singh as the main accused, for allegedly attempting forced religious conversions. Based on a complaint, it was revealed that the accused organized a gathering where candles were lit, prayers were conducted, and religious texts, including copies of the Bible, were distributed. The villagers were reportedly enticed with promises of monetary benefits and free medical treatment in exchange for converting to Christianity. Cases were registered under the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021.

#9 Phoolpur Gathering Targets Hindu Deities

On 21 September 2025, in Baudai village, Phoolpur, police registered a case against 12 named individuals for allegedly using a religious gathering to lure people into Christianity while making offensive remarks against Hindu deities. The meeting, held under the guise of “Changnai Sabhas” or fake healing prayers, was intended to convert members of the local Hindu community. The accused, including Santosh, Ram Ashray, and others, were charged under relevant legal sections. This case highlights the use of derogatory statements against indigenous faiths as a alleged tactic in conversion efforts, further inflaming religious sentiments.

#10 Agra Racket Lured People from Multiple States

On 19 September 2025, Agra police arrested Rajkumar Lalwani and eight others for allegedly running a large-scale religious conversion racket from his home in Kedarnagar, Shahganj. Lalwani lured people from states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra under the pretense of providing treatment or solving financial problems. Participants were reportedly subjected to conversion rituals involving meat and blood, and later taken to large prayer gatherings in Ambala. Each Sunday, large meetings were held at an ashram for the converted individuals. Lalwani was remanded to jail, and investigations, including warrants for other accused, continue.

#11 Illegal Church Preyed on Dalits in Phoolpur

On 19 September 2025, in Baudai Katauta village, Phoolpur, Prayagraj, an illegal church was found to be luring poor Dalit villagers with promises of money and other inducements. The church, connected to an entity called the “Changaai Sabha Agriculture School,” was also allegedly holding seminars to influence people against Hinduism. Police questioned two individuals involved and recorded their statements as part of an ongoing investigation into the forced conversions. This incident highlights the specific vulnerability of economically and socially marginalized groups to such alleged conversion activities.

#12 Shahjahanpur Couple Ran Long-Term Racket

On 16 September 2025, Shahjahanpur police arrested a couple, Harjeet Mashi and Sunita Mashi, from the Sidhauli area for allegedly running a long-term forced conversion racket. The duo reportedly lured locals by offering cures for illnesses and financial benefits, pressuring them to adopt Christianity. During the arrest, police recovered religious literature meant for influence and evidence of monetary support from various trusts. The accused were presented in court and sent to jail after cases were registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Uttar Pradesh anti-conversion law.

#13 Basti Church Used Money and Medicine as Bait

On 17 September 2025, in the Chandrashekhar Azad Nagar Ward of Babhnan, Basti, police arrested two individuals, Ram Nihor and Ramtej, for allegedly using a local church to coerce conversions. The accused were reported to have lured people, particularly Hindu women, to prayer meetings by offering money and medicines. Once there, they pressured them to adopt Christianity. A case was registered under the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Conversion Act 2021. The accused were arrested near Marvatia village, presented in court, and subsequently sent to jail.

#14 Farrukhabad Gang Used Online and Offline Methods

On 3 September 2025, Farrukhabad police busted a conversion gang led by Pradeep Mashi operating from the Kadri Gate area. The gang allegedly lured poor and distressed villagers to religious gatherings at Mission Hospital residences, promising to solve their problems and relieve poverty or ailments. Attendees were prohibited from Hindu worship, gradually pressured to convert, and subjected to rituals like tilak removal and meat consumption. The gang also conducted online prayer meetings via Google Meet under the name “Church of God.” Police arrested Pradeep Mashi and seized religious literature and documentation of conversion attempts.

#15 Unauthorized Prayer Meeting in Basti

On 1 September 2025, in the Rani Pokhara Mohalla, Basti, police registered a case against four individuals—Harihar Yadav, Ambika Prasad, Shiv Shankar, and Durgavati—for organizing an unauthorized prayer meeting. The gathering was allegedly held under the pretext of a religious event to pressure locals, particularly from scheduled castes, into adopting Christianity. The police intervention prevented the meeting from proceeding further, and an investigation was launched to ascertain the full intent and activities of the accused, marking one of the first such reported incidents in the state for the month.

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The post UP Govt’s Crack Down On Illegal Religious Conversions: 15 Incidents Reported In 1 Month appeared first on The Commune.

Sultanpur police on Monday arrested five people, including four women, on allegations of attempting to convert villagers to Christianity in Nurpur village of Dhammaur area.

Police identified the arrested persons as Ram Keval Bharti, Kunta Devi, Nirmala Bharti, Janki Kori, and Shyam Kali Kori. Officials said they were found conducting a prayer meeting where a black LED screen and a pen drive containing Christian sermons were being used. They were also accused of distributing Bibles and other religious material.

According to reports, members of a Hindu organisation allegedly linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) intervened in the meeting, leading to an argument. The group later informed police, after which Manoj Kumar Singh, a local RSS functionary from Dhammaur, lodged a complaint.

Based on the complaint, police registered a case under the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion of Religion Act along with other relevant sections, said Dhammaur station officer Anju Mishra.

The incident comes amid a series of recent cases filed under the anti-conversion law in Uttar Pradesh, where police have been instructed to act strictly on complaints of forced or fraudulent religious conversions.

(With inputs from Times of India)

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The post Sultanpur, UP: Five Held For Attempting To Convert Villagers To Christianity appeared first on The Commune.

The University of Madras has now cancelled a controversial lecture titled “How to Spread Christianity in India” and “Why Need This Margam” following a massive public backlash.

That’s why it is important to raise your voice. The Subramania Ayyar endowment lecture is cancelled now ! https://t.co/nEoJfyt6im

— 𑀓𑀺𑀭𑀼𑀱𑁆𑀡𑀷𑁆 (@tskrishnan) March 8, 2025

The event, scheduled under the Sir S. Subramania Ayyar Endowment Lectures by the Department of Ancient History and Archaeology, sparked outrage for its blatant religious proselytization under the banner of a secular, taxpayer-funded institution.

The official invitation stated that the lecture that was supposed to be delivered by Er. K. Siva Kumar, went viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism. Many questioned how such overtly religious topics, which have no connection to history or archaeology, were approved in the first place. The invitation explicitly promoted Christian evangelism, raising serious concerns about academic neutrality and the university’s role in religious advocacy.

Subramania Ayyar Endowment Lecture in “University of Madras” on “How to spread Christianity in India!” by one ‘Siva’ Kumar!

Fundamentalism? Fanaticism? Anyone? pic.twitter.com/umXYJWOkAl

— Dr.SG Suryah (@SuryahSG) March 7, 2025

Netizens expressed their shock and disapproval, with many criticizing the university for endorsing a program that seemingly sought to propagate a specific religion rather than focus on historical or archaeological discourse. Some sarcastically questioned whether the university was promoting fundamentalism, while others labeled the event as “absurd” and “bizarre.” The backlash intensified as many pointed out the inappropriate use of a public institution for religious propagation.

In response to the mounting outrage, the university’s Department of Ancient History and Archaeology issued an official letter on 7 March 2025, announcing the cancellation of the event. The letter, signed by Dr. J. Soundararajan, Head of the Department, cited “administrative reasons” for the cancellation but failed to address the core issue of how such a lecture was approved in the first place.

After the issue gained traction, the Registrar of Madras University sent a letter to the Tamil Nadu Governor’s office about the “unauthorized conduct” of the lecture.

The letter stated that the Department of Ancient History and Archaeology has not obtained any permission from Madras University to conduct the Endowment lecture on the said topics.

“In view of this, we instruct the concerned individual to cancel the endowment with immediate effect”, the letter said.

While the cancellation of the lecture may have diffused immediate tensions, the controversy has undoubtedly raised serious concerns about the role of public institutions in maintaining secular academic spaces.

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The post University Of Madras Cancels Controversial Lecture On Spreading Christianity In India After Public Outrage appeared first on The Commune.

The University of Madras, one of India’s oldest public universities has found itself at the center of bizarre, surprising, flabbergasting, and even grotesque controversy due to a recent decision that has left many in shock.

The university’s Department of Ancient History and Archaeology, under the Sir S. Subramania Ayyar Endowment Lectures, has scheduled a lecture on the topic: “How to Spread Christianity in India” and “Why Need This Margam” which translates to “Why We Need This Religion”

The official invitation, which has gone viral, explicitly promotes these topics under the university’s banner. It reads, ”

UNIVERSITY OF MADRAS
DEPARTMENT OF ANCIENT HISTORY AND ARCHAEOLOGY
Cordially invites you to the SIR S. SUBRAMANIA AYYAR ENDOWMENT LECTURE 2024-2025
To be delivered by Er. K. Siva Kumar, B.Ε., Μ.Β.Α Chief Engineer, Hyderabad
Topics:

1. “How to Spread Christianity in India”
2. “Why Need This Margam”
   Date: 14.03.2025 (Friday) | Time: 02.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m.
   Venue: MODERN LECTURE HALL, Department of Ancient History and Archaeology, University of Madras, Chepauk, Chennai – 600 005
   All are welcome
   Dr. J. Soundararajan
   Associate Prof. and Head I/C, Chairperson – School of Historical Studies
   Department of Ancient History & Archaeology
   University of Madras, Chepauk, Chennai – 600 005.”

Subramania Ayyar Endowment Lecture in “University of Madras” on “How to spread Christianity in India!” by one ‘Siva’ Kumar!

Fundamentalism? Fanaticism? Anyone? pic.twitter.com/umXYJWOkAl

— Dr.SG Suryah (@SuryahSG) March 7, 2025

What has particularly shocked the public is that these religiously charged topics are being hosted by the Department of Ancient History and Archaeology, rather than a department dedicated to theology or religious studies. The move has sparked outrage, as it appears to promote proselytization under the guise of historical and archaeological discourse, raising questions about academic neutrality and the role of public institutions in religious advocacy.

This unprecedented incident has left many bewildered, with critics questioning how a secular tax-payer funded institution could veer into blatant Christian proselytization rather than focusing on its core disciplines of history and archaeology.

Several netizens took to social media to criticize the university, questioning its decision and expressing their outrage. One user sarcastically asked, “Fundamentalism? Fanaticism?” while another pointed out, “How on earth are these topics related to archaeology? This is getting crazier by the day!” Others reacted with disbelief, calling it “absurd,” “weird,” and “What is this nonsense?” The backlash continued as many questioned the academic relevance of such lectures under a history and archaeology department.

Ask PhD in Mass Conversion @thirumaofficial

— வசி சிவசித்தன் Vasi Sivasithan (@VSivasithan) March 7, 2025

S Subramania Ayyar endowment lectures are usually based on Archeology, and conducted by that Dept. How on earth these topics related to Archeology ? It’s becoming crazier by the day

— 𑀓𑀺𑀭𑀼𑀱𑁆𑀡𑀷𑁆 (@tskrishnan) March 7, 2025

There’s a need for handling these things the hard way in Tamil Nadu. Unless it’s taken up in an organised hardcore way these elements will get ahead inch by inch.

— AiAiyae (@Aiaiyae) March 7, 2025

Why need this margam? Ah Oru Margam ah thaan irukaanunga ivanunga?

— Indian From South (@DefeatVictory) March 7, 2025

https://twitter.com/0Truth_Triumph/status/1897987711484465215

What is this crap ??

— Tripurasundari (@TripuraKamakshi) March 7, 2025

What the ???

— Ram (@iyer_rao) March 7, 2025

Wierd …

— Harsh Ketan Jakhar (@HarshKetanJakh1) March 7, 2025

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The post Tax-Payer Funded Madras University To Hold Lecture Titled “How To Spread Christianity In India” appeared first on The Commune.

The Biccavole Police in Andhra Pradesh’s East Godavari District have arrested Pastor David Raja Reddy on charges related to forced religious conversions, harassment, and extortion.

The pastor, known for running a church in Balabhadrapuram village in Andhra Pradesh, faces allegations from a local resident, Nakka Srinivas, who claims he was pressured into converting to Christianity and forced to donate one lakh rupees to the church.

According to the First Information Report (FIR), Pastor Reddy allegedly demanded the donation from Srinivas and, upon refusal, began harassing him.

The complainant notes that David Raja Reddy, who had converted to Christianity, has been actively proselytizing in the village. Reddy reportedly constructed a church directly opposite Srinivas’s home and has been using loudspeakers during church services, causing a disturbance to nearby residents.

The pastor reportedly amplified his harassment tactics by using loudspeakers at high volume during church gatherings, creating a disturbance and causing significant distress to Srinivas and his family.

The complaint further states that Pastor Reddy repeatedly pressured him to convert to Christianity, despite his clear refusal. He further alleges that Reddy and his associates have been obstructing Srinivas’s property by parking vehicles in front of his house during church gatherings.

The complainant further alleged that Reddy had previously created discord in his household, leading to a separation from his wife. Additionally, Reddy is accused of threatening Srinivas with false accusations of illegal activities, including involvement in the ganja trade and sexual harassment, if he continues to refuse conversion.

This arrest is part of a larger investigation by Biccavole Police, who have charged Pastor Reddy under several sections, including 130, 292, 351, and 308(6) of the BNSS. The case sheds light on ongoing concerns over illegal religious conversions and community disturbances in the area, according to police sources.

Sources in Andhra Pradesh note that this is the first arrest for forced conversion in the state’s history.

Pastor David Raja Reddy arrested by Biccavole Police for:
– Forcing complainant to convert to Christianity
– Demanding Rs 1L as Church fund
– Harassing with High volume loudspeakers for not converting to Christianity
– Causing family disputes leading separation of husband & wife https://t.co/aJlw1coZOA pic.twitter.com/JVjqnvREnN

— Legal Rights Protection Forum (@lawinforce) November 12, 2024

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The post Pastor Arrested In Andhra Pradesh For Alleged Forced Conversions, Extortion And Harassment appeared first on The Commune.

On 25 October 2024, a viral video circulated online, raising the question, “The IMA takes strong action against Hindu Babas, but why are they silent on these superstitions?” The video shows a pastor claiming to heal a person with a physical deformity through the power of “Yeshu.” This clip is one of numerous similar videos from Church-led “Hallelujah” events.

Instance#1

IMA takes strong action against Hindu Babas but they are quiet on this superstitions, why?pic.twitter.com/LTX3UesTKf

— Frontalforce (@FrontalForce) October 25, 2024

These so-called “healing” videos have ignited discussions over the intentions behind Christian missionary activities, with concerns that they may be leveraging deceptive practices to convert Hindus to Christianity. The video brings attention to how some evangelical groups allegedly exploit vulnerable individuals through methods like church planting, mass evangelical gatherings, prayer sessions, and healing events. Let’s take a look at ten similar cases involving alleged fake healing by Christian pastors and missionaries.

Instance#2 – Mera Yeshu Yeshu

A video of Prophet Bajinder Singh with a minor boy at a Christian missionary event recently went viral, sparking controversy and fueling a meme fest online. In the video, the boy is seen weeping profusely as the pastor asks if his sister could speak previously, to which the boy responds negatively. The pastor then asks if she can speak now, and the boy replies affirmatively, as the background song “Mera Yeshu Yeshu” plays.

Late ….But still vibing on "Mera yeshu yeshu …Mera yeshu yeshu "Damn too hilarious Behan bolne lagi pic.twitter.com/CECearb9iv

— SKY (@Shakal_Pe_Matja) August 25, 2021

Instance#3 – Pastor Claims To Heal Kidney Failure Through The Power of Jesus

Pushpa Diwadkar, a resident of Santa Cruz, Mumbai, had been suffering from a slipped disc and kidney failure. However, she recently met a pastor who claimed to use the power of Jesus Christ to not only treat her disc issues but also revive her failed kidneys.

Instance#4 – Jesus “Heals” Blind Girl

Prophet Bajinder Singh, previously arrested on charges of rape, demonstrated what he calls his rare gift of “prophetic healing” at an evangelical event, where he prayed over a young girl blind from birth, claiming he could restore her sight through his connection to Jesus. With his prayer, the pastor announced that the Lord had blessed the child, granting her vision, much to the joy and astonishment of the crowd. The girl’s parents, moved by what they saw as miraculous healing, tearfully expressed their gratitude, chanting “Hallelujah” in praise.

Instance#5 – Jesus “Cures” Couple From AIDS

Pastor Bajinder Singh, who claims to be a direct messenger of Jesus, has recently presented what he calls a cure for AIDS at a healing event. Known for his “miraculous” solutions to numerous diseases, Pastor Bajinder this time targeted HIV, aiming to heal a husband-wife duo suffering from the virus. Through a ritual involving tapping their heads, rubbing their cheeks, and chanting “Hallelujah,” he proclaimed the couple cured, celebrating the victory over what he described as the “satan called AIDS.”

Instance#6 – Royal Rumble Of Conversions

In the video of Geoffrey Ministries, women are seen rolling on the floor, seemingly under the influence of the pastor’s “magic touch.” With simple hand movements, he appears to control the attendees, who have come to seek relief from their ailments. The footage also shows individuals with chronic illnesses receiving “treatment” on stage, while some disabled men start dancing and women jump around energetically as the pastor waves his hands over them.

Instance#7 – Young Jesus And His Miracles

Meet Ankit Ram Babu, the son of the notorious evangelist Ram Babu, who has been entrenched in the conversion business for quite some time. A recent snippet highlights Ankit’s effectiveness in luring innocent individuals by convincing them that he can cure diseases with just a snap of his fingers. During a live stage event, he claims to have cured a patient of cancer, praying, “Thank you, Lord, for healing him, and Father, bring the work that has begun to completion,“ as he chants, “Amen, Amen.”

Instance#8 – Slow Motion Exorcism

In the video from Kerala, a woman who appears to be ‘possessed‘ is undergoing what seems to be a ‘cure‘ or ‘exorcism‘ in slow motion. She moves her hands around slowly, her face contorted as if she has just stubbed her toe on a stool, all while the chants of ‘Hallelujah‘ fill the air. As she gets up, she sticks out her tongue to the audience for reasons known only to her and makes strange hand gestures, seemingly tying herself in knots. In a series of slow-motion movements, she begins to shake vigorously before collapsing onto the ground and rolling around. The stunned audience watches in awe before suddenly cheering as the woman is proclaimed ‘cured.’

Instance#9 – Punjab’s Christian ‘Prophets‘ And Pastors Claim to Cure Cancer and Reverse Death

“Do you believe you will be healed here? Do you believe?” Bajinder presses, addressing the weeping wife of a wheelchair-bound man. “Yes, I believe,” she sobs in response. Bajinder then turns to the captivated audience gathered at the venue. “Everyone, raise your hands and let the Holy Spirit work,” he urges, and the crowd complies. Focusing back on the man, Bajinder exclaims, “Jesus, touch him!” prompting the man to scream loudly. “Get up!” Bajinder commands. In a dramatic moment, the man rises, and the crowd erupts into rapturous hallelujahs. Right on cue, the band and singers onstage begin an upbeat devotional song, the catchy rhythm proving irresistible. So convincing has the supposed healing been that the “patient” joins the pastor in a few bhangra-style steps to the thumping music and even jogs down the stage.

Instance#10 – 40 Hindu Couples Targeted For Christian Conversion In Meerut

Pastor Biju and his wife, both dressed in white, made enticing promises to the crowd in attendance, urging them to join the church. They offered “miracle water” for treating various illnesses, pledged that the church would cover the financial costs of their children’s weddings, and committed to providing each couple with Rs 2-5 lakh to help them start their livelihoods.

Around 40 Hindu couples were being lured into Christian conversion in a colony in UP’s Meerut on Sunday when a raid took place

Pastor Biju and his wife, dressed in white, was promising these to the crowd if they join a church:

-‘miracle water’ for treating their illnesses… pic.twitter.com/r3Coal1t17

— Swati Goel Sharma (@swati_gs) October 25, 2024

Instance#11 – Fraud Pastor Ankur Narula “Cures” Disabled Man

Ankur Yoseph Narula, the self-styled ‘healing’ pastor, founded the “Church of Sign and Wonders” in Khambra village in 2008 after leaving his family business. He rose to prominence by claiming to exorcise evil spirits and perform miraculous healings through prayer. Starting with just three followers, Narula’s church expanded significantly, boasting over 300,000 followers and spreading across 60 acres by 2018, with 15 branches in India and abroad. However, allegations of fraud surround him, as he operates the fourth-largest church in the world, located in Jalandhar, Punjab, and is accused of profiting from parading sick and disabled individuals, claiming to have healed them. Notably, despite his claims, his own father passed away last year under circumstances that raised questions about Narula’s purported healing abilities. In one video, he is seen “curing” a disabled man who was previously on a stretcher, as the man walks toward him, further fueling skepticism about the authenticity of Narula’s claims.

#AnkurNarula used all sorts of dirty tricks to fool people in the name of curing old diseases, spread rampant dangerous medical remedies without license.
++ pic.twitter.com/kvTbYpzo3R

— Legal Rights Observatory- LRO (@LegalLro) November 8, 2020

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The post 11 Instances Of Fake Healing By Fraud Proselytizing Pastors In India appeared first on The Commune.

India is unique in many ways. Bharat is like no other nation in the world. Its ancient native culture with a continuance for thousands of years, its religion, way of life, its assimilation of foreign cultures, its hundreds of spiritual practices each in its rightful place, its numerous native and foreign religions boasting uninterrupted practice, the hundreds of languages and dialects spoken in the country since ancient times, the diversity of landscapes from the deserts to the fertile plains, from the plateaus and the long coast lines bordering three oceans to the heights of several mountain ranges including the Himalayas, the Western and Eastern ghats and the lush, rolling hills of the North East, its diversity of both flora and fauna and so much more.

Every non-native foreigner that has tried to understand the large variety in every sphere of life in India-Bharat, has been baffled by how the largest diversity of practically everything in one nation, has worked, stayed intact, not only survived but thrived through the ages from the ancient world to the modern times in all its rich, glorious, colorful, deep and complex layers of history – the complexity of life in all its cultural, linguistical and spiritual practices, the diversity of life styles, food varieties, dietary habits, agricultural practices and what not !!

Some foreigners like the Jews, the Parsis/ Zorastrians, some early Christians, came in peace to seek refuge while others like the Islamic invaders and the trade/economic conquerors like the British and the Portuguese arrived with a non-peaceful agenda – that of immediate or gradual conquest either through war, subjugation, destruction and complete annihilation of native culture… or through unfair trade practices and cunning manipulation of native rulers, turning one against the other, leading to an eventual submission of the entire nation, comprising of several small kingdoms.

Through all the barbaric Islamic invasions and murderous conquests as well as England’s financially, economically disastrous conquest of the vast Indian wealth and resources via a shrewd divide-and-rule policy, India-Bharat remained “whole” to the disbelief of all its invaders. The people that suffered the most, that lost the most, yet stood resolute in their beliefs and way of life, through hundreds of brutal conquests, were the native Indic people of all the regions of the Indian sub-continent including the areas comprising of present-day Pakistan and Bangladesh.

As we all know, Pakistan and Bangladesh were given up by the British and a small group of narrow-minded Indian politicians who lacked the foresight of what radical Islamism was capable of, in spite of numerous examples of it from recent Indian history. Through out India-Bharat’s long, colorful, fascinating yet tumultuous history, its worst impacted, were the long-suffering native Indian people of Indic religions (Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, Tribal, other Indigenous belief systems). The natives that gave up the beliefs of their ancestors and converted to Islam and Christianity led a protected, sheltered, fairly comfortable life.

The ones that suffered the most and put up with discrimination of all sorts, were the vast number of native Indian Hindus and those of other Indic religions, who bravely and proudly resisted both aggressive as well as passive attempts at conversion to Islam in the earlier centuries and several attempts at conversion to Christianity in the later centuries.

Going by the nation’s history and the logical conclusions which can be reached within a historical context, which religion, people, culture, heritage and way of life, needs to be protected, encouraged and sponsored? The native Hindu and Indic faiths which have already been subjected to centuries of aggressive discrimination and persistent attempts to convert. Or Islam and Christianity which have always been protected and even promoted by rulers at various times? Why does India continue its obsession with almost things that fall into a “minority” spectrum? Does it make logical sense? What are we trying to prove to the world and does the world really care? No other country in the world promotes policies that favour its minorities. No other nation discriminates against its own native culture and religion. No other nation sanctions government-sponsored special benefits such as reservations in welfare, education and jobs on the basis of religion or free/ subsidized pilgrimage visits for their minorities!

It is time for all Hindus, irrespective of education, class and caste to demand that these political parties stop the unjust, discriminatory, Divide-and-Rule policies of India’s invaders, the very same “minority” invaders that have repeatedly tried to and are still trying to…change and erase the very roots of native Indian culture. A culture and way of life whose religious practices and core beliefs revolve around respect for Mother Nature, a simpler non-material life lending itself naturally to an eco-friendly living and aiming at higher spiritual ideals rather than an obsession with indulging in conversions of people through whatever means necessary, profit from the increased numbers of converts, hoping to ultimately dominate the world.

If Hinduism and the other Indic, Pan Asian native faiths cease to exist in the face of aggressive proliferation of Islam and Christianity, the world will lose its diversity and plurality. It is Hinduism and other indigenous faiths that require protection via reservations and other means, NOT the world’s largest religions – Islam and Christianity, both non-native, alien to Bharat.

It is both preposterous and ironic that Nehru, his Congress party, the Communist Left and the bandwagon of Western-influenced “native white” liberals, choose to demand protection and reservations for Islam and Christianity when in reality, it is the native faiths and culture which are in dire need of protection, encouragement and growth, for their very survival! A nation that chooses to forget, disregard, protect its history, culture, heritage and way of life, will not be able to stand tall and proud.

Shivani is a freelance writer from Vijayawada.

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The post Preserving India’s Cultural Diversity: The Case For Native Faith Reservations appeared first on The Commune.