On 6 November 2025, a controversy erupted in Kota, Rajasthan, after Pastor Chandi Vargesh and several other church pastors conducted “spiritual sessions” at Birsheba Church that allegedly resulted in the conversion of local Hindu residents to Christianity. A video of Vargesh proclaiming that Christianity would soon replace “Satan’s rule” went viral on social media, triggering protests from Hindu organisations. Representatives submitted a memorandum to the District Collector and filed a complaint at Borkheda Police Station. Police have registered an FIR and begun an investigation into the allegations.

In this report, we have compiled 21 incidents from January to November 2025 documenting how evangelical groups allegedly lured or coerced poor and tribal villagers into converting to Christianity.

#1 Forced Conversions at Birsheba Church Trigger Statewide Outrage (4-6 November 2025)

In Kota, Rajasthan, Pastor Chandi Vargesh and several pastors brought from Delhi conducted “spiritual satsangs” at Birsheba Church between 4-6 November 2025. Locals alleged that Hindu individuals were converted through pressure tactics. A video of Vargesh declaring Christianity would replace “Satan’s rule” went viral, sparking protests by Hindu organisations. A memorandum was submitted to the District Collector, and a complaint was filed at Borkheda Police Station. While the church claimed the programme had official permission, police reviewed the video and registered an FIR. An investigation was launched into allegations of forced conversion and provocative statements.

#2 Illegal Conversion Racket Busted; Five Arrested in Nainapur (7 October 2025)

On 7 October 2025, Rajasthan Police uncovered a conversion racket in Nainapur where five accused – Prashant Jatav, Rohit Jatav, Ramnarayan Bairwa, Mahesh Meghwal, and Keshav Bedada targeted poor Hindu families. Investigators recovered conversion literature, pen drives, and propaganda material promoting Christianity while spreading false statements against Hinduism. Residents stated they were pressured with money and fear tactics to convert. The operation revealed structured planning by the group. Police registered an FIR under Sections 196(2) and 299 of the BNS. All five were arrested, produced before the court, and subsequently sent to judicial custody.

#3 Pastor and Son Accused of Pressuring Villagers in Sriganganagar (6 October 2025)

On 6 October 2025 in Khatalbana, Sriganganagar, Pastor Baggu Singh and his son Amandeep were accused of luring villagers into Christianity by promising miraculous healing. Victim Satnam Singh reported that the pastor declared he would be cured only if he converted. Singh alleged the pastor insulted Sikhism and its Gurus, threatened his son Sukhwinder, and conducted conversion rituals inside a house-church. Baggu Singh was previously booked in 2024 for offering ₹1 lakh for conversions. Hindumalkot Police registered an FIR; Amandeep was arrested while Baggu absconded. Pawan Singh was arrested for assaulting Satnam near the police station.

#4 Police Seize Christian Literature at Mass Conversion Meeting in Dholpur (28 September 2025)

On 28 September 2025, a large gathering at the home of Ratan Singh in Surajpura, Dholpur, was found to be a planned conversion meeting attended by over 100 villagers. Complainant Vijay stated that the organisers told locals to destroy home temples and discard idols. The accused—Ratan Singh and associates—allegedly made derogatory remarks against Hindu deities and used external funding to lure poor families. When Vijay objected, they attempted to attack him. Police seized Christian books from the scene, registered an FIR, and detained one accused while an investigation continued into the organised activity.

#5 Conversion Attempt Sparks Tension at Prayer Gathering in Bharatpur (28 September 2025)

On 28 September 2025 in Sevaar, Bharatpur, a prayer meeting held inside a private home was reported as a covert conversion operation. Local residents alerted Bajrang Dal, whose members found a large crowd gathered. They alleged that conversion attempts were underway under the guise of prayer, prompting slogans and protests. The main organiser fled before police arrived. According to Bajrang Dal coordinator Shubham Saintra, the meeting was part of an organised evangelism module targeting Hindu families. Police dispersed the gathering and initiated an inquiry into the activities conducted inside the premises.

#6 Police Seize “Target Papers,” Arrest Two in Anupgarh Conversion Case (23 September 2025)

On 23 September 2025, Sandeep from Anupgarh reported that two men, Paul Barjo and Aryan, were coercing him to convert. During investigation, police recovered documents detailing conversion targets, success records, and operational plans, confirming an organised effort. The accused allegedly focused on Hindu and Sikh families, using false promises of miraculous healing and problem-solving to influence victims. After five days in police remand, the court ordered judicial custody for both. A third accused, Vinod Kumar, remained absconding. Police stated his arrest was imminent.

#7 Christian Conversion Centre Busted in Bharatpur’s Subhash Nagar (14 September 2025)

On 14 September 2025, police in Subhash Nagar Colony, Bharatpur, exposed a conversion centre operated by Hariom Koli and Yogesh Koli. Poor Hindu families were gathered and lured with ration, clothing, money, and job promises. Inside, police recovered Bibles, holy water, and conversion material. Witnesses said women and children were being encouraged to adopt Christianity through inducements and emotional pressure. One accomplice fled with additional materials before police arrived. Officers arrested Hariom and Yogesh and seized all documented items from the centre during the raid.

#8 Church Disguised as School Found Converting Tribals in Dungarpur (14 September 2025)

On 14 September 2025, villagers in Jelana, Dungarpur, discovered that a building advertised as a school was secretly operating as a church for three years. Local Hindu groups found tribals being instructed to offer Christian prayers inside the premises. The operators allegedly misled families by presenting religious conversion as educational support. Community leader Gopalram Maharaj stated that ongoing conversion activity had targeted multiple tribal households. Police presence was recorded, though no arrests were immediately confirmed. Investigations into the misuse of the school cover continued.

#9 Man Offered Money and Benefits for Conversion in Banswara (6 September 2025)

On 6 September 2025, RP Patresh and his group attempted to convert residents of Bocharda, Banswara, by offering ₹5,000 monthly support, free education, and medical benefits. When Congress district president Kamlesh Damor arrived with workers to oppose the efforts, the accused assaulted them and issued death threats. Patresh’s supporters allegedly stormed the police station with sticks to intimidate the complainants. Kamlesh filed an FIR at Kesarawadi Police Station. The conversion network was described as organised and targeting vulnerable families.

#10 Forced Conversions of Children Exposed in Alwar Missionary Hostel (3 September 2025)

On 3 September 2025, Alwar Police raided a missionary hostel in Syed Colony, Udyog Nagar, rescuing 52 children reportedly forced into Christian practices. The facility, operated by Tamil Nadu-based “Naya Jeevan Sanstha,” housed children aged 6–17 from Alwar, Hanumangarh, and Delhi. Victims said Father Amrit and caretaker Sonu Rayasikh pressured them to abandon their religion. Police recovered Bibles and conversion material. Both accused were arrested, and the children transferred to safety. A formal FIR was registered.

#11 Pastor Bajinder Ran Major Conversion Event in Bharatpur (22 August 2025)

On 22 August 2025, police raided a large evangelist gathering at Sonar Haveli in Atal Bund, Bharatpur, where Pastor Bajinder Singh, already jailed in Punjab for a rape case, conducted a mass conversion event via video displays. Around 350 attendees were provided food, cash, and “healing promises.” Women were given ₹500 each to convert. Police seized objectionable material and religious books and arrested three organisers. Bajinder was later brought on a production warrant. Authorities also examined foreign funding linked to his accounts.

#12 Conversion Operation Found in Sikar’s Shanti Nagar Church (13 August 2025)

On 13 August 2025, Sikar Police uncovered conversion activities inside Shanti Nagar Church, where Pastor Shelvan and members kept diaries listing targeted Hindu families. Residents found people being pressured to accept Jesus during a prayer meeting. Police seized diaries, religious books, and conversion material. Both the church group and Hindu organisations filed cross-complaints, after which police detained suspects and initiated an investigation.

#13 Secret Conversion Plot Uncovered in Bikaner’s Valmiki Basti (27 July 2025)

On 27 July 2025, police in Valmiki Basti, Bikaner, detained a group led by Ajit Kumar running a secret conversion module inside a rented house. Around 15–20 residents were being persuaded to convert using promises of protection and statements promoting extremist ideas. Police recovered Bibles, conversion literature, violent notes, and links to earlier exposed modules in Bengla Nagar. Twelve individuals were detained, and questioning was launched.

#14 Mass Conversions at Dausa’s Agape Fellowship Church (29 June 2025)

On 29 June 2025 in Dausa, VHP and other Hindu groups protested outside Agape Fellowship Church, alleging thousands of conversions had been conducted over the years. Pastor Thomas George reportedly used prayer sessions to influence economically vulnerable residents and later performed rituals at hidden locations where Hindu symbols were removed. Police received a formal complaint and launched an inquiry into allegations of long-running conversion activity.

#15 Woman Dies by Suicide After Forced Conversion Pressure in Bharatpur (15 June 2025)

On 15 June 2025, 25-year-old Manja from Talimpur village died by suicide after recording a video accusing her husband Laxman, mother-in-law Ramdei, and brothers-in-law Arun and Rohtash of forcing her to convert to Christianity while also demanding dowry. Married on 21 January 2015, she discovered her in-laws secretly practiced Christian rituals. She alleged pressure to abandon Hindu worship and fulfil dowry demands including ₹1 lakh and a Bullet motorcycle. Police treated the suicide video as primary evidence and registered an FIR.

#16 Pastor Accused of Coercing Family Through “Alcohol Cure” in Ajmer (24 May 2025)

On 24 May 2025, a youth from Foysagar Road, Ajmer, alleged a pastor from Kundannagar lured him with claims of curing alcohol addiction. The pastor administered a liquid, forced him to attend a Bible centre, removed Hindu deity photos from his home, and discouraged regular worship. He reportedly influenced the victim’s wife and sister-in-law, leading the sister-in-law to convert. Police received a formal written complaint and began an inquiry.

#17 Foreign Missionary Booked for Converting Bhil Families in Kota (21 April 2025)

On 21 April 2025 in Kaithoon, Kota, police booked foreign national Colleen and organiser Joy Mathew for conducting conversion programmes among the Bhil community. Bajrang Dal workers claimed the duo gathered tribal families for conversion without permission. Police registered an FIR under Section 13 of the Foreigners Act, detained the accused, and verified their involvement in unauthorised religious activity.

#18 Sirohi Evangelist Event Disrupted; Four Detained (6 March 2025)

On 6 March 2025, police disrupted a conversion event at Anwar Nagauri’s agricultural well in Revdar, Sirohi, where 120–150 Adivasis were gathered. Preachers claimed they could cure illnesses and that “no law applies to them.” Police detained four individuals and seized Bibles. Later, villagers gathered at the police station demanding release of the accused. Police sent them home and continued the inquiry.

#19 Secret Tribal Conversion Drive Busted in Udaipur (16 February 2025)

On 16 February 2025 in Udaipur, police raided the home of Chhaganlal Bhagora, who had gathered 11 tribal people for conversion through prayer meetings and inducements. In another linked incident in Bikaner, missionaries organised a covert conversion event in Bangla Nagar targeting tribal families. Police detained all 11 participants along with the house-owner couple and seized conversion materials.

#20 Evangelical Group Arrested for Conversions in Kasarwadi (24 January 2025)

On 24 January 2025, Kasarwadi Police arrested Shailendra Dodiyar and five others for attempting to convert Mangilal’s family by offering money and insulting Hindu deities. The group had been distributing Christian books to ST families across the settlement. Police seized conversion material and registered an FIR.

#21 Five Arrested for Offering Cash to Force ST Families into Christianity in Banswara (9 January 2025)

On 9 January 2025, Banswara Police arrested five men—Tolsingh Garasia, Suresh Pitar, Pappu Humarmal, Rajesh Badra Garasia, and Makna Singh Garasia—after discovering a late-night gathering of ST families. The accused offered ₹1 lakh per person, monthly allowance, clothes, and household items to force conversions. They allegedly insulted Hindu deities and conducted Christian rituals. Police filed charges and seized religious material.

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The post 21 Documented Incidents Reveal Evangelical Conversion Push In Rajasthan appeared first on The Commune.

A senior journalist with The Hindu, Varghese K George, has stirred fresh controversy with a social media thread that reads more like a sermon than a sober rejoinder. Responding to criticism of his recent column on the Indian diaspora, George made a sweeping claim that “the arrival of Christianity in Kerala precedes the arrival of Vedic practices and ideas,” adding that Christianity is “less foreign” to India than Hinduism is to the West.

His statement came after backlash to his article titled “India’s Diaspora diplomacy and the limits of cultural nationalism abroad” where he argued that the display of Hindu cultural practices such as Ganesh visarjan (immersion) or Deepavali fireworks in countries like Canada, the US, and Australia risked crossing “limits of acceptable public behaviour.” He suggested that the Indian diaspora’s growing cultural assertiveness was colliding with “heightened nationalism” and “fear of foreign interference” in the West.

But when confronted by readers who saw his piece as one-sided and subtly anti-Hindu, George deflected with an extraordinary historical assertion about the supposed precedence of Christianity over Vedic traditions in Kerala.

1/n
In a recent article, I argued that India’s diaspora mobilisation/Hindutva politics in the West need to account for following facts 1) Heightened nationalism in the West 2) Concerns regarding foreign interference in domestic politics among nationalists & liberals n the West.

— Varghese K George (@vargheseKgeorge) October 30, 2025

“In Kerala,” he wrote, “the arrival of Christianity precedes the arrival of Vedic practices and ideas… To the extent that any idea, faith or ideology can be ‘foreign’ to any place, Christianity in Kerala is less ‘foreign’ than Vedic religion in Kerala.”

Such a statement would sound familiar to anyone versed in missionary rhetoric from the colonial era – the very line once used by European proselytizers to claim antiquity and legitimacy for imported faiths in the subcontinent. George’s framing not only dismisses well-established archaeological and textual evidence of pre-Christian Vedic and Dravidian cultural presence in the region, but also recycles the long-debunked “St. Thomas in India” narrative used to lend ancient roots to Christianity on Indian soil.

Hinduism In Kerala Is Older Than His Imported Religion

Varghese K. George’s claim that “the arrival of Christianity in Kerala precedes the arrival of Vedic practices and ideas” isn’t just historically untenable — it’s an echo of missionary propaganda that scholars discredited decades ago. Such assertions aren’t history; they’re theology masquerading as journalism.

Long before the first missionary ships from Rome or Syria touched India’s western coast, Kerala had already absorbed centuries of Vedic thought, ritual, and philosophy. The state’s cultural and spiritual landscape — its temple architecture, oral recitations, and priestly lineages — are steeped in a continuity that traces back to the earliest strata of Indian civilization.

Let’s begin with the foundation myth of the land itself. Kerala, according to tradition, was reclaimed from the sea by Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Vishnu. He hurled his axe from Gokarna southward, commanding the ocean to retreat, thus creating the fertile strip we know today as Kerala — Bhargava Kshetram, the Land of Parashurama. This isn’t merely legend; it’s a civilizational charter. It explains why Kerala’s very geography, temple layout, and social institutions  are tied to Vedic cosmology and ritual systems.

Long before any cross or chalice appeared on the Malabar coast, Kerala’s spiritual soil was rich with Hindu syncretism. The worship of Bhagavathi (the Mother Goddess), Ayyappa (the celibate warrior-deity of Sabarimala), Kuttichathan, Serpent gods (Nāga Devatas), and Kandanar Kelan blended seamlessly with the Vedic fire sacrifices and temple rituals introduced by the Namboothiri Brahmins. The Theyyam performances of North Kerala, where gods and ancestors descend to dance among the people, draw directly from this indigenous spiritual continuum — not from imported creeds or colonial catechisms.

Vedic learning thrived here centuries before the supposed arrival of St. Thomas. The Śrauta yajnas performed by Namboothiri priests in villages like Panjal are not re-enactments — they are living fossils of rituals described in the Taittirīya Brāhmaṇa. The Vedic Manuscripts in Kerala study records how ancient methods of oral transmission have survived “from very ancient days” preserving the ṛg, yajus, and sāma chants in pristine form.

Even modern scholars acknowledge that Kerala’s Hinduism is an intricate blend of Vedic Brahmanism and nature worship belief systems — a synthesis that long predates Christian contact.

By contrast, the tale of Christianity’s origin in Kerala — the legend of St. Thomas arriving in AD 52 — is, at best, tradition, not verified history. The Kerala Tourism department itself concedes that “the visit of St. Thomas is still a matter of dispute among historians.” Even Encyclopaedia Britannica terms it “a matter of tradition.” No archaeological trace, no contemporary record, and no textual mention supports the claim of a first-century Christian presence. It survives because it flatters the colonial ego — the same way some Indian elites today flatter Western narratives to appear “liberal” and “objective.”

So when George tweets that Christianity is “less foreign” to Kerala than Vedic religion, he isn’t offering history — he’s delivering a sermon. The statement is theological, not factual; ideological, not analytical. It’s the familiar trope of Christian exceptionalism disguised as secular rationality — the colonial impulse to declare the native faith as alien and the imported one as indigenous.

If his logic were applied globally, we’d have to call Islam “less foreign” to Spain than Catholicism, or claim that the British monarchy predates Stonehenge. Such historical gymnastics belong not in journalism, but in pulp theology.

Kerala’s cultural memory tells a different story — one sung in the chants of Soma Yajnas, painted in the Theyyams, and carved in the granite sanctums of Bhagavathi temples. It’s a land where every grove, river, and shrine still whispers Vedic rhythm. The soul of Kerala wasn’t baptized — it was born of fire, mantra, and myth.

In trying to “decolonize” Hindus abroad, Varghese K. George has instead revealed how thoroughly colonized his own mind remains.

Drop The Pen And Wear A White Frock

Ironically, while George’s original article warned about “Indian cultural nationalism” spreading abroad, his own argument now reveals the unmistakable tone of Christian cultural nationalism – one that subtly delegitimizes Hinduism’s roots while positioning Christianity as a “native” Indian tradition.

A Hindu asserting that Vedic ideas preceded Christianity would be instantly branded “chauvinist,” yet a journalist in a mainstream national daily can claim the reverse without scrutiny. The outrage over his remarks has intensified not just because of the historical inaccuracy but because it exposes the ideological bias of a section of Indian media elites who routinely deride Hindu cultural expression as “exhibitionism” but romanticize Abrahamic proselytization as “universal” or “humanist.”

By reducing Hindu practices abroad to a “foreign interference” problem and elevating Christianity as indigenous, George inadvertently reinforces exactly what many accuse the Westernized Indian media of doing – echoing colonial tropes about Hinduism being alien, oppressive, or backward while framing Christianity as civilizationally benign.

If The Hindu journalist’s goal was to appear “objective,” his thread achieved the opposite. The claim that Christianity is “less foreign” than the Vedic religion in Kerala may win applause among missionary historians, but it is tone-deaf and factually unsound, especially coming from someone who positions himself as a journalist.

For a publication that claims to write with ‘rationality and secularism’, George’s pronouncements have crossed into theological apologetics. His remarks sound less like historical analysis and more like a carefully coded defense of Christian exceptionalism – the very ideology that once justified colonial conquest.

In trying to lecture Indian Hindus about “acceptable public behaviour” and “foreign interference,” Varghese K George has instead revealed how deeply colonial categories still shape the Indian English media’s moral compass.

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The post “Arrival Of Christianity In Kerala Precedes Vedic Practices”: The Hindu Journo Varghese K George Speaks Like A Christian Missionary, But Parashurama’s Land Is Older Than His Paramapitha’s History appeared first on The Commune.

A detailed report submitted by the Superintendent of Police, Dakshina Kannada District, has uncovered a major racket involving individuals falsely posing as Human Rights Commission officers to interfere in matters related to the Dharmasthala temple. The investigation, forwarded to the Karnataka State Human Rights Commission, exposes how impostors, including a pastor John Simon from Bengaluru and a rowdy Madan Bugudi from Hubballi, misused the name of the commission to intimidate officials and spread misinformation about the revered Hindu shrine, Dharmasthala.

Complaint And False Representation

The chain of events began after the Kannada daily Kannadaprabha published a report on 26 August 2025 titled:
“Rowdy sheeter among fake Human Rights Commission officers who came to the police station with Girish Mattanna.”

Acting on the report, the Human Rights Commission initiated a suo motu complaint under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. The matter was referred to the Belthangady Police for a detailed probe.

During the inquiry, officers found that when activist Mahesh Shetty Timarodi visited the Belthangady Police Station accompanied by Girish Mattannavar, several others joined them. Among these individuals was Madan Bugudi, who appeared in formal attire and falsely introduced himself as an officer of the Human Rights Commission. Upon verification, police confirmed that no such position was ever held by Bugudi. Instead, he was identified as a notorious rowdy-sheeter from Hubballi, previously paraded publicly by the Hubballi Police Commissioner during a roll call of known offenders.

Pastor John Simon And The Fake Human Rights Network

Further investigation revealed the involvement of another impersonator, John Simon, who also claimed to represent the Human Rights Commission.

According to the report, Simon had been operating in Bengaluru using counterfeit human rights credentials to threaten police officers and extort money under the pretext of providing “protection.” Police discovered that Simon runs a private church in Doddaballapura, where he acts as pastor, and has registered an NGO named “Human Rights Anti-Corruption Social Justice Commission.”

Investigators found that Simon approached citizens claiming he could “help if police tortured them,” thereby creating a network of extortion and manipulation. Several public complaints have since been filed, demanding that stringent criminal action be taken against him.

The report describes John Simon as a self-styled Christian pastor who “has brazenly misused the guise of human rights to manipulate citizens and challenge governmental authority in broad daylight.” Despite operating openly under fake credentials, “it took an inordinate delay for authorities to initiate action against him.”

Shocking news

Police report reveals that Christian conversion-link behind Dharmasthala controversy.

It has come to light that John Simon from Bengaluru, who supported Girish Mattanna against Dharmasthala case, appeared under the guise of a Human Rights Commission officer. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/9QlY60lP7h

— Mohan Gowda (@Mohan_HJS) October 7, 2025

A formal complaint from Praveen K.R., son of Ram Gudigar and resident of Kattadabailu Mane, Dharmasthala village, Belthangady taluk, has now been forwarded to the Belthangady Police Inspector for further legal action.

Attempt To Defame Dharmasthala Temple

On 30 August 2025, Girish Mattannavar and Madan Bugudi visited the Belthangady Police Station again and held a media interaction, claiming to be devotees of Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala.

The police report clarifies that their real motive was to create unrest, disrupt communal harmony, and tarnish the temple’s religious reputation. By introducing himself to reporters as a human rights officer, Bugudi misled the media and damaged the credibility of the official Human Rights Commission.

Police also noted that Girish Mattannavar and Mahesh Shetty Timarodi were in close coordination with bloggers and social media activists, including Mohd Sameer, to spread false and defamatory narratives against Dharmasthala temple authorities.

Legal Action And Registered Case

After gathering sufficient evidence, Belthangady Police registered Case No. 100/2025 under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, signaling the gravity of the offenses.

The invoked sections include Section 204 – destruction of evidence, Section 319(2) – impersonation of a public servant, Section 353(2) – obstruction of lawful duty, and Section 3(5) – aggravated misuse of authority.

These charges reflect the deliberate attempt by the accused to mislead authorities, obstruct justice, and exploit state institutions for ideological and personal motives.

A progress report has already been submitted to the Chief Minister of Karnataka, confirming that the case remains under active investigation by the Dakshina Kannada Police. Authorities have vowed to treat such fraudulent use of human rights credentials with “the utmost seriousness” and prosecute offenders under the full extent of the law.

Pastor’s Alleged Involvement And Religious Manipulation

Police findings stress that John Simon is a habitual impersonator who repeatedly interferes in official investigations while exploiting the banner of human rights for “personal and ideological gain.” His role as a Christian pastor, his fake NGO registration, and his targeting of Hindu religious institutions, particularly Dharmasthala, suggest a conversion-linked motive, according to investigators.

Authorities have recommended that strict legal and administrative measures be imposed to prevent such fraudulent human rights operatives from exploiting religious or social conflicts to weaken Hindu institutions.

The report concludes that the Dharmasthala controversy was built on a “web of deceit.” Genuine devotees including Chinniah also known as the ‘masked man’ and Sujatha Bhat were allegedly scapegoated to protect a larger propaganda network run by Girish Mattannavar, Mahesh Shetty, and their associates such as Sameer Mohammad.

This group, the report states, “attempted to spread a fabricated narrative against one of Karnataka’s most revered Hindu institutions.” Initially, even some Hindu devotees were misled by their orchestrated stories, but as evidence surfaced, it became clear that the entire episode was part of a deliberate conspiracy fueled by fake human rights activists and a pastor posing as a Human Rights Commission officer.

The findings raise troubling questions:

What connection does a Christian pastor have with temple affairs? Is there a larger conversion syndicate behind the scenes? Are external elements from Kerala playing a role in spreading this propaganda against Dharmasthala?

(With inputs from Hindu Post)

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The post Pastor And Rowdy Among Fake Human Rights Team That Tried To Defame Dharmasthala: Police Report appeared first on The Commune.

In the villages of G. Kallupatti and Genguvarpatti near Vathalagundu, a curious annual spectacle unfolds every October. Thousands gather to honor a British missionary, Brother James Kimpton with processions, floral tributes, and annadhanams. The late missionary, fondly called “Thatha” (grandfather), is now celebrated like a local deity, his image paraded in chariots through temple-lined streets.

#NewsUpdate | திண்டுக்கல்: வத்தலகுண்டு அருகே ஜி.கல்லுப்பட்டி கிராமத்தில் 1974ம் ஆண்டு தங்கியிருந்து சுற்றுவட்டார கிராமத்தில் ஏழை, எளிய மக்களின் நலன்களுக்காக பாடுபட்ட ஜேம்ஸ் கிப்ம்டன் எனும் வெள்ளைக்கார தாத்தாவின் நினைவு தினம்

முளைப்பாரி எடுத்து, ஊர்வலமாக வந்து நினைவிடத்தில்… pic.twitter.com/dgVcvAptlZ

— Sun News (@sunnewstamil) October 5, 2025

But behind the façade of reverence lies a troubling story of cultural subversion and the long shadow of missionary influence in rural Tamil Nadu.

A Missionary’s Second Home in Tamil Nadu

Born in Wales in 1925, Kimpton joined the Catholic De La Salle Brothers, a missionary order blending education with evangelization. After being expelled from Sri Lanka in 1964 due to that country’s decision to curb foreign religious interference, he found fertile ground in Tamil Nadu. In 1974, he founded Reaching The Unreached (RTU) in G. Kallupatti, a charitable society that quickly expanded into a sprawling welfare empire across Theni and Dindigul districts.

RTU’s projects included orphanages, schools, women’s self-help groups, HIV support programs, and housing schemes, all funded by Western religious and secular organizations. While the visible outcome appeared philanthropic, the institutional control and ideological structure remained firmly under the Catholic order’s grip.

Charity as a Tool of Religious Influence

Kimpton’s public persona was that of a saintly foreigner devoted to the poor, but his alleged model of “service without conversion” followed a well-known postcolonial missionary formula using welfare as a moral gateway rather than a pulpit. The constant presence of Christian symbols, the use of Western names like “Boys’ Town,” and the subtle introduction of biblical moral narratives in daily life quietly normalized Christian authority among Hindu villagers.

This approach did not need overt conversion drives. Instead, it replaced traditional community structures with missionary-administered ones, orphanages instead of gurukulams, foreign-funded schools instead of local schools, imported models of charity instead of dharmic seva. Over time, it fostered a deep dependence on foreign-controlled institutions, ensuring that gratitude and faith flowed upward toward the Church.

Dependency and Displacement of Local Dharma Institutions

The massive scale of RTU’s activities effectively displaced native systems of social support. Rather than empowering local self-governance or temple-based welfare traditions, the organization centralized authority in missionary hands. Even after Kimpton’s death in 2017, the institution remained within Catholic administration under the Capuchin Friars, a clear signal that the project was never meant to become community-owned.

The dependence created through these welfare structures has had enduring consequences. Generations of rural families have come to equate education, healthcare, and charity with Christian institutions, slowly eroding the role of local mutts, temples, and dharma sabhas in social life.

The Deification of a Missionary

Perhaps the most revealing symptom of this long-term influence is the near-deification of Kimpton himself. Villagers now perform rituals for him with molapari, processions, and offerings, practices traditionally reserved for local deities. This phenomenon, while framed as affection, reflects a deeper cultural confusion: the absorption of a foreign missionary into Hindu ritual frameworks, turning spiritual reverence into cultural submission.

Such syncretic devotion blurs the lines between respect and religious influence. It demonstrates how sustained missionary presence, cloaked in welfare, can reshape local belief systems until even villagers begin to sanctify their colonizer.

A Continuing Pattern in Rural Tamil Nadu

Kimpton’s legacy is not isolated. It represents a broader pattern of how Christian missions operate in India’s interior: building goodwill through service, embedding foreign values under the language of “compassion,” and gradually replacing traditional Hindu frameworks of social responsibility.

The result is a slow but steady erosion of indigenous cultural confidence. While Tamil Nadu’s temples and mutts once sustained entire villages through annadhanam and vidya daanam, today the same functions are often outsourced to missionary NGOs with international funding and long-term ideological goals.

A Lesson in Cultural Vigilance

Brother James Kimpton’s story is often presented as one of selfless service, but viewed through the lens of Dharma, it also serves as a cautionary tale. It shows how foreign religious networks can embed themselves deep within rural India, transforming the very meaning of service, charity, and worship.

For a civilization that once viewed seva as sacred duty rooted in Dharma, the veneration of a missionary as a village god is not a mark of harmony, it is a warning of how cultural memory can be reshaped through dependence. As Tamil Nadu continues to navigate questions of faith, identity, and influence, the cult of “Thatha” Kimpton stands as a reminder that every act of foreign charity in a vulnerable land carry more than food and medicine, it carries a message, and a mission.

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The post The Deification Of A Missionary, James Kimpton, In Rural Tamil Nadu appeared first on The Commune.

Between 2021 and 2025, a series of disturbing cases across India highlighted the misuse of educational spaces by evangelical forces to target poor, tribal, and underprivileged children for religious conversion. Reports from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu, and other states revealed a pattern of coercion, inducements, and misuse of hostels and classrooms. Investigations by police, child rights bodies, and education departments have brought several cases to light. Below is a compilation of 20 incidents that underline the scale and seriousness of this issue.

#1 Rajasthan Hostel Forces Children Into Conversion

On 3 September 2025, Rajasthan Police raided a Christian missionary hostel in Alwar, uncovering systematic religious conversion activities allegedly run by the Chennai-based Friends Missionary Prayer Band (FMPB). Two men, Amrit Singh and Sonu Raisikh, were arrested for indoctrinating 50 children from Sikh, Rajput, and Scheduled Caste families. Investigators found Bibles, digital material, and testimonies showing children were taught to reject their faiths and accept Christianity. Parents confirmed being lured with promises of education. Amrit, previously arrested in Sikar for similar offences, is accused of running a wider network. An FIR has been filed, and a state-level probe is underway.

#2 Headmaster Accused of Promoting Christianity in Chhattisgarh

On 4 June 2025, locals in Telai Dhar, Batai, Chhattisgarh, complained that a missionary-run primary and secondary school operating on government land for nearly 50 years was conducting Sunday church services inside its premises. Headmaster Shanilal Tigga was accused of supporting these activities, which villagers said violated rules and disturbed the educational atmosphere. The Block Education Officer confirmed an inquiry would be conducted. Critics argue that the misuse of government land for religious promotion raises serious concerns about transparency and accountability in mission-run schools.

#3 Douglas Memorial in Bilaspur Under Fire

On 23 April 2025, Douglas Memorial Christian Missionary Institution in Takhatpur, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, faced complaints for allegedly luring poor tribal children into conversion under the guise of free education and accommodation. Locals claimed that instead of focusing on academics, the institution promoted Christian teachings and groomed students to later act as pastors. A formal complaint was filed with the Chief Minister and Bilaspur Collector, prompting authorities to open an investigation.

#4 Nursing Student Pressured by Principal in Jashpur

On 9 April 2025, a final-year nursing student at Holy Cross Nursing College in Kunkuri, Jashpur Nagar, Chhattisgarh, accused Principal Sister Vincy Joseph of pressuring her to adopt Christianity. The student reported harassment, threats of expulsion from the hostel, and being barred from exams for resisting. Police registered an FIR under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act.

#5 Tribal Children Coerced in Madhya Pradesh Hostel

On 29 March 2025, officials discovered that 48 Gond tribal children housed in a residential facility in Mandla, Madhya Pradesh, were being indoctrinated into Christianity by an NGO named “Sign for India.” The State Child Rights Commission found discrepancies in records, children were listed as Hindus in official documents but marked as Christians in hostel registers. Shockingly, CCTV cameras were discovered in the girls’ bathrooms, raising privacy and safety concerns. Many children expressed aspirations to become pastors instead of professionals. Authorities opened inquiries into the hostel’s management and suspected funding sources.

#6 Religious Indoctrination at Jashpur Mission School

On 19 March 2025, villagers in Kunkuri, Jashpur Nagar, Chhattisgarh, accused a local mission school of conducting Bible classes disguised as “moral science” sessions. Parents alleged their children were discouraged from celebrating Hindu festivals and pressured to attend church. Locals complained that the school, funded partly by foreign charities, deliberately targeted Adivasi children with free meals and uniforms. Officials confirmed they were reviewing the school’s curriculum and operations.

#7 “Jesus Will Cure You”: Nun’s Conversion Attempt in TN Hospital

On 1 March 2025, a controversy erupted at Tirunelveli Government Medical College Hospital in Tamil Nadu. A Christian nun was reported to have entered the fracture ward, prayed over patients, and attempted to convert them by claiming “Jesus will cure your illness.” The Hindu Munnani organization accused priests and nuns of regularly visiting hospital wards to preach and pressure vulnerable patients into conversion, blurring the lines between healthcare and proselytization.

#8 Tribal Girls Flee Khargone Hostel Over Conversion Pressure

Fifteen minor girls fled the Ajja Girls Hostel in Chirwa, Khargone, on 27 January 2025, alleging forced religious conversion and abuse. They accused warden Rita Khatte of physical and mental harassment, compelling them to read the Bible, attend Christian prayers, and perform household chores. An inspection by the Block Education Officer led to the seizure of religious books. The warden was subsequently removed from her position and replaced pending a detailed inquiry.

#9 Unauthorized Prayers at Govt-Leased Hostel in Andhra Pradesh

On 4 February 2025, a government-leased BC Residential Hostel in Kovvur, Andhra Pradesh, was found to be conducting unauthorized Christian prayer sessions for over 55 Backward Class students from grades 3 to 10. The activities allegedly violated constitutional provisions prohibiting forced religious instruction in government-aided institutions. The Legal Rights Protection Forum filed a complaint with the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights.

#10 Anganwadi Worker Teaches Christian Lessons to Toddlers

A viral video from 8 January 2025, showed an Anganwadi worker in Patkura village, Surguja, Chhattisgarh, teaching Christian religious lessons to toddlers during mealtime. The worker was seen reciting passages of Christian faith, which the children were made to repeat. The incident at the government-supported child development center triggered widespread outrage and prompted an official inquiry into the worker’s conduct.

#11 UP School Prayer Assembly Used for Conversion

An English Medium School in Chhatauna, Uttar Pradesh, became the center of controversy on 15 December 2024. The principal and staff were accused of distributing religious texts and encouraging poor families and children to participate in Christian-style prayer sessions aimed at conversion. The prayer session was stopped on the spot, and an FIR was filed against the institution after a memorandum was submitted to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate.

#12 Gujarat School Couple Accused of Forcing Conversion

On 29 November 2024, a viral video from Navsari, Gujarat, showed Kamal Naskar and his wife Sarita, associated with Seventh Day English Medium School, leading children in a Christian prayer. The children were allegedly made to take an oath renouncing Hindu deities and declaring Jesus as the only God. Hindu organizations filed a complaint with the Navsari District Police Chief, demanding an FIR for forced religious conversion.

#13 Betul Coaching Centre Front for Conversion Activities

On 16 September 2024, a coaching centre in Hamalapur, Betul, was exposed as a front for religious conversion. Pastor Rajo Thomas and two women, Jyoti and Pooja Gohe, were accused of brainwashing dozens of minor children and poor tribal community members into accepting Christianity under the promise of a better life. An FIR was registered against the accused under the Madhya Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act.

#14 Ratlam School Stormed in Protest Over Conversion Claims

St. Peter’s Higher Secondary Institution in Jaora, Ratlam, was stormed by ABVP members on 27 July 2024, who chanted “Stop Conversions.” They alleged the school was promoting Christian religious propaganda through imagery and teachings. The protesters replaced Christian-themed images with pictures of Bharat Mata and Goddess Saraswati and performed an aarti on the campus in a two-hour-long demonstration.

#15 Damoh School Caught in Foreign-Funded Conversion Scheme

A raid on 18 February 2024, by the MP Child Rights Commission on Good Shepherd Institution in Patharia, Damoh, uncovered a forced conversion scheme. Four Hindu children were recorded as Christians in official documents, and Bibles were seized. Parents reported their children were mocked for their faith and secretly taken to church. The institution was linked to the Operation Mercy India Foundation, which runs 126 centers across India.

#16 Bhopal Shelter Director Arrested in German Funding Probe

The director of a children’s home in Bhopal, Anil Mathew, was arrested on 8 January 2024, after girls reported being forced to immerse Hindu idols, stop worshipping their deities, and adopt Christianity. They were given Christian books, forced into daily prayers, and told facilities were provided by “Lord Jesus.” Police are investigating foreign funding from Germany linked to the institution.

#17 Jhabua Mission School Trained Tribal Girls as Nuns

On 23 July 2023, the MP Child Rights Commission discovered three minor tribal girls at a Jhabua mission school being trained to become nuns in a building called Jyoti Bhavan. The girls were brought from Rajasthan. The commission also found evidence of forced conversion attempts, illegal fee collection, foreign funding, and illegal possession of a firearm. An FIR was recommended.

#18 Chennai School Hostel Accused of Forcing Christianity

On 6 September 2022, an unregistered girls’ hostel at CSI Monahan School in Royapettah, Chennai, was found forcing girls from poor families to follow Christianity during a surprise inspection. Some students also reported abuse by the hostel warden. Police filed an FIR against the hostel management under the Juvenile Justice Act.

#19 TN School Teachers Accused of Pressuring Students to Convert

On 14 June 2022, parents in Keezha Kuthapanchan Village, Tenkasi, refused to send their children to a government-aided school, accusing several teachers of pressuring around 165 students to abandon their religion and caste and embrace Christianity. Over 75 parents staged a sit-in at the Block Education Office, leading the Tamil Nadu Education Department to launch an official probe.

#20 Raisen Hostel Influenced Students for Conversion

A surprise inspection by the NCPCR on 8 November 2021, at the Sisters of Jesus Girls Hostel in Intkheri, Raisen, found that 19 poor students were being influenced for religious conversion. Bibles were found in dormitories, and the hostel was unregistered. The managing Catholic nuns denied wrongdoing, claiming they only supported poor girls and that registration was pending.

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The post Missionary Influence In Classrooms: 20 Shocking Cases of Forced Conversion In Indian Schools And Hostels (2021–2025) appeared first on The Commune.

Police investigations into a Christian missionary hostel in Alwar, Rajasthan, have revealed that a Chennai-based organisation, the Friends Missionary Prayer Band (FMPB), was funding and running systematic religious conversion activities under the guise of education.

The hostel, which housed 50 children from Sikh, Rajput and Scheduled Caste families, was raided on 3 September 2025. Two men, Amrit Singh of Ahmedabad and Sonu Raisikh of Ramgarh, were arrested for orchestrating the operation. Officials found that the children were being indoctrinated to abandon their family faiths and embrace Christianity.

"Only those who worship Jesus will go to heaven; others will burn in hell," missionaries and crypto-converts told students living in a missionary hostel in Alwar, Rajasthan.

A Chennai-based organisation called FMPB was running a hostel named Friends Missionary Fair Band for poor… pic.twitter.com/ON7gNjtMHY

— Subhi Vishwakarma (@subhi_karma) September 5, 2025

Children Taught to Reject Their Faith

Police recovered Bibles, digital material and documents from the premises. Testimonies from children revealed that they were instructed to pray twice daily, chant that “only Jesus is God”, and dismiss their own religious traditions.

One child admitted, “We do not believe in God. Jesus is the only God. We also pray every morning and evening.” Others recounted being told that “only those who worship Jesus will go to heaven, others will burn in hell.”

Investigators also learned that children were taken to a river, where idols were immersed alongside a cross. Afterward, they were told, “Your god just washed away; how will he protect you? Jesus is the only true God.”

Parents and Locals Confirm Indoctrination

Several parents confirmed their children had been placed at the hostel with promises of good education and job opportunities. Many were charged an annual fee of ₹3,000.

Rajendra Singh, a Sikh father, admitted that his son had been at the hostel since 2022 and that he too had abandoned Sikh practices after missionary influence. A neighbour, Pappu, said the hostel had been active for five years and that parents attended weekly “kirtans” at the facility.

Repeat Offender and Wider Network

Police revealed that Amrit Singh had been previously arrested in Sikar in August 2024 for running a similar conversion racket. Despite securing bail, he moved to Alwar and continued operations. Authorities are now examining his bank accounts and funding sources, noting that he was able to send children to expensive schools while claiming to run a hostel for the poor.

The role of FMPB, the Chennai-based missionary body, is central to the case. Investigators confirmed that the Alwar hostel was operated directly under the banner of FMPB. Testimonies from students aged 16–17 stated that the institution’s practices were systematically designed to push them into rejecting their faiths.

FIR and Expanding Probe

An FIR (No. 416/25) has been registered at Udyog Nagar Police Station against Pastor Selvam, a Tamil Nadu native, and 15 others linked to the FMPB network. Two locals have been detained.

SP Sudhir Chaudhary said, “Amrit Singh has been previously involved in a religious conversion case in Sikar. We will now move to get his bail canceled. Strict action will be taken against anyone else found running conversion rackets in the name of education.”

A senior officer has been tasked with leading the probe, which now extends to examining FMPB’s finances, networks across Rajasthan, and possible links to other states.

Denials From Accused

Amrit Singh, himself a Garasiya convert to Christianity, denied the charges during interrogation, claiming: “I am a Hindu myself. I only tell stories from the Bible. Our purpose is to take care of the children.”

Police, however, noted that testimonies and seized material point to a deliberate effort to convert vulnerable children using education as a cover.

(With inputs from Organiser)

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The post Chennai-Based Christian Missionary Organization Caught In Rajasthan’s Conversion Racket Targeting Sikh, Rajput And SC Children appeared first on The Commune.

A video of YouTuber and street preacher Nicholas Bowling popped up on social media recently. The said video which is about 11 months old on YouTube is about Bowling’s preaching trip to India which he labelled as “I Spent 7 Days Preaching in One of the Most Persecuted Nations!”

In the video, he chronicles his week spent in India where he is seen preaching and converting people – which is illegal for a foreign national and is blatantly violating visa norms.

Despite India’s strict regulations on religious proselytization, particularly by foreigners on tourist visas, Bowling openly preached in churches, village streets, and private homes, frequently seen encouraging Hindu attendees to convert to Christianity.

Who Is Nicholas Bowling?

Nicholas Bowling states he lived a reckless life filled with alcohol, drugs, and promiscuity. Despite outward appearances, he was depressed, broken, and empty. His turning point reportedly came during a crisis involving a felony charge, a breakup, and his father’s medical emergency. Claiming a radical encounter with God, Bowling abandoned his career path for ministry. His past, by his own admission, was marked by moral failure and self-destructive choices.

Evangelical Activity In Rural Andhra Pradesh

Throughout the 20-minute video, Bowling narrates how he received an invitation from India to minister in the villages of Andhra Pradesh. He opens the video with the claim that he spent “150 hours in one of the most dangerous Nations for Christians around 80% of India’s population are Hindu 14% are Muslim and only 2% are Christians.”

While doing so, he showcases the wrong map of India.

The numbers that he speaks of are from the 2011 national census. Bowling seems to use this wrong fact in his favour, he could have checked the latest data from Joshua Project‘s website which has pretty much recent data.

His first day shows him staying with a family of a pastor Jeevan in Andhra Pradesh. Bowling is seen ministering at a church where this pastor preached. He is also seen praying, preaching, and converting people at many homes in the state.

The next day he is seen going to Bethesda Prayer Hall in Hyderabad to preach at the Sunday morning service. He also proudly claims that “The pastor told me that 90% of the people in their Church were ex- Hindus who converted to Christianity only 10% of the members of their Church were born in Christian families.”

On the third day, he is seen at a church in another village where 14 different pastors came together for the service.

He narrates how “many of them had gone up into unreached Hindu Villages and preached the gospel and several of them had been beaten, stoned, ran out of the villages and even tied up to trees and left; but there were also many other stories good stories of healing Miracles that had taken place and of people who had gotten saved as they went to reach these people. This persecution that they had endured didn’t make them back down even a little bit, but they united together with the goal of reaching 10,000 villages with the gospel.”

He calls Hindus protecting themselves from these missionaries as “persecution”.

He also says, “We headed out to evangelize the village.” – Proof enough that he indulged in preaching.

On Day 4, he is seen going to another village where he is seen singing and ministering at someone’s home and proudly proclaims, “On the fourth day, we had another village Church service, but this time it was at someone’s home. As the service began some of the neighboring Hindus found out that there was an American who was coming, so they ended up coming to the service too, following the message we gave a Salvation call, and then prayed for people to be filled with the Holy Spirit and as the Holy Spirit mightily fell upon the people.”

In the same session, he is seen converting a Hindu couple. He says, “As we ministered and laid hands on each person, a Hindu couple came forward and something amazing happened. Do you accept Jesus, she says yes. Hallelujah.” He then asks them to “put your trust only in Jesus” and the couple say yes. He further says, “He is the only one who can save you, look to no other gods for help, God is a jealous God, there is only one God.”

Then he performs the miracles on a Hindu girl. He sadly said, “We didn’t see her convert to Christianity, but she came specifically for her child to be healed.”

After “healing” the girl, he says, “To me that speaks really loudly that another religion is coming to our God for healing and I believe that God healed that baby and she’s going to give her life to the Lord because of it.”

On the 5th day, he is seen preaching and “casting out demons”.

On the sixth day, he goes to yet another church with Jeevan, visited homes and ministering there, he stated they were mostly Jeevan’s relatives.

He also talks about how he conducted public gospel sessions in Hindu-majority villages and laid hands and prayed over Hindu individuals, declaring miraculous healings and deliverance from spirits. He has also claimed multiple conversions, including of Hindu men, women, and at least one pregnant woman seeking healing for her unborn child.

In one instance, a Hindu couple is shown converting to Christianity on camera, as Bowling declares, “Say you will have visions of Jesus… Look to no other gods for help. God is a jealous God. There is only one God.” In another scene, he says to a Hindu woman, “God will heal your baby to confirm the message of the Gospel… and you need to choose to trust Him alone.”

This kind of activity, recorded and published by Bowling himself, directly contradicts Indian visa stipulations, which prohibit religious preaching or conversion activities by foreign nationals unless they are on specifically designated missionary or religious visas which are almost never granted for public proselytization, particularly in areas sensitive to communal balance.

Under Indian visa regulations, foreign nationals entering India on tourist or business visas are strictly barred from engaging in:

• Missionary activity
• Public preaching
• Conversion efforts
• Organized religious gatherings

Additionally, Section 295A and 153A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) prohibit acts that deliberately or maliciously outraging religious feelings and promoting enmity between groups.

By Bowling’s own admission, he engaged in faith healing, including praying away cancer, grief, and infertility. He also promoted exclusive worship of Jesus while denouncing Hindu practices. He encouraged viewers to “turn away from sin and from other gods,” suggesting Hindu deities are false.

The coordinated nature of these activities, alongside a foreign evangelist, amplifies the seriousness of the alleged violations, implicating both foreign and local actors in religious conversion drives that could disrupt communal harmony.

It is noteworthy that an American preacher David Courney who arrived in Andhra Pradesh, married a local and went on to preach and convert in Manipur, was also seen instigating the Kukis before the riots in 2023.

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The post YouTuber & Christian Evangelist Nicholas Bowling Preaches And Converts Hindus In India, Flouting Visa Rules appeared first on The Commune.

The murder of Australian missionary Graham Staines and his two sons in Odisha in January 1999 has long been portrayed globally as an emblematic instance of anti-Christian violence in India. International media coverage, subsequent films like The Least of These: The Graham Staines Story, and official narratives have all cast the incident in stark communal terms, often ignoring the complex sociopolitical undercurrents that preceded the tragic event.

First let us take a look at Graham Staines and what he indulged in, in the name of missionary activity.

Graham Staines

Graham Staines, often portrayed as a leprosy relief worker, was primarily engaged in evangelism among tribal communities in Odisha. Monthly despatches published in the Tidings newsletter by Australian Missionary Tidings reveal a sustained pattern of missionary activity, including Bible sales, tract distribution, baptisms, and Vacation Bible Schools. Notably, Christian literature was distributed during Hindu festivals like the Jagannath Rath Yatra, a move that, while not illegal, raised moral and cultural concerns. Despatches from 1997 to 1998 indicate active promotion of conversions, with repeated mentions of baptisms, jungle camps for evangelism, and testimonies of individuals claiming “miracle cures” as motivation for converting. Inquiries noted that promises of healing led some to convert, although many reverted to Hinduism when their problems persisted. It was also observed that neither the missionaries nor local authorities were aware of the Orissa Freedom of Religion Act, 1967, which mandates reporting of conversions and baptisms to district magistrates—a legal requirement that was consistently ignored.

Furthermore, missionary activities targeted minors through Sunday schools and Vacation Bible Schools, raising ethical concerns. Despatches also mention internal conflicts within church groups and disputes over mission property. Despite being known for leprosy work, Staines’ reports provide scant evidence of medical outreach, suggesting that his primary focus was religious conversion. His prolonged activities arguably violated the Orissa Freedom of Religion Act and contributed to social tensions in tribal areas.

Now let us take a closer look at official testimonies, judicial records, and inquiries about Staines and his death that reveal a more tangled and uncomfortable truth—one involving allegations of sexual misconduct, coercive conversions, community tensions, and judicial revisionism under institutional pressure.

A Testimony Silenced: Hemalata Karua’s Allegations

Among the most disturbing and least-discussed aspects of the case is the testimony of Hemalata Karua, a tribal woman from Machhagarh village. She appeared before Sessions Judge M.N. Pattnaik and accused Graham Staines of sexually assaulting her during a Christian camp organized at the border of Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar districts. The camp, held on the eve of Makar Sankranti in January 1999, was a yearly event where new converts would gather.

According to her testimony, Hemalata and her husband were persuaded to convert to Christianity with promises of escaping their financial hardships. They stayed overnight at the camp, where Hemalata recounted that Staines allegedly entered her tent under the pretext of a meditation session and tried to molest her. “He entered and asked me to close my eyes and meditate. As I was meditating he laid his hands on my body, I protested but he continued to persuade me, saying physical relationship with him would benefit me,” she told the judge. She stated that when she screamed, Staines fled the scene, and she left the camp the following morning. Twenty days later, she alleged, Gladys Staines, Graham’s wife, approached her to apologize for her husband’s behavior.

Institutional Pressure And Supreme Court’s Backtrack

In the original 2005 Supreme Court verdict in the sentencing of Dara Singh, the man convicted for the murders, Justices P. Sathasivam and B.S. Chauhan had noted, “There are materials to suggest that the missionaries were involved in forceful conversions… The intention was to teach a lesson to Graham Staines about his religious activities, namely, converting poor tribals to Christianity.”

But in 2011, this part of the judgment was expunged following intense lobbying by Christian organizations and mainstream media. The final revised version read, “There is no justification for interfering in someone’s religious belief by any means.”

The original judgment’s critical reference to conversion practices was removed in what critics argue was an unusual instance of judicial rollback driven by external pressure.

The Wadhwa Commission’s Findings: A Sobering Reality

The Justice D.P. Wadhwa Commission, instituted to investigate the murders, recorded testimonies that painted a very different picture of missionary activities in the region. Several tribal witnesses revealed that conversion promises were often linked to miraculous health cures and social mobility.

“Many witnesses who testified before the Commission said that ‘Cure from Health Problems’ was the prime reason for conversion to Christianity,” wrote Justice Wadhwa. “Some of the witnesses reverted to Hinduism when the promised Magic Cures did not materialise.”

Moreover, the Commission criticized local officials, “Both the District Magistrates and the Superintendent of Police also did not have a proper working knowledge of the Orissa Freedom of Religion Act and were not aware of the provisions of the Act and its rules.”

The Wadhwa Commission also documented how certain high-profile cases used to demonize Hindus were, in fact, unrelated to religious conflict. In one instance, two tribal children were found murdered in Kandhamal district. The media immediately declared it an attack on Christians. However, investigations revealed that the perpetrator was a relative of the victims—himself a Christian. This was mentioned in BJP leader Arun Shourie’s blog.

Tensions in the Community: Not Religious, But Cultural

The conflict wasn’t merely between Hindus and Christians but between tribal converts and non-converts. The CBI court that tried Dara Singh noted, “The tribals converted to Christianity distanced themselves from the non-Christian tribals and adopted anti-tribal customary practice of eating beef and ploughing land during Raja festival… Tension was brewing between Christian and non-Christian communities.”

Such religious conversion, the court said, disrupted community cohesion and tribal identity, ultimately leading to backlash.

Political And Media Whitewashing?

BJP MP Satya Pal Singh accused Staines of molesting as many as 30 tribal girls and converting them under duress. He also alleged that a senior Congress leader influenced the CBI to exclude such testimonies from the charge sheet. The National Commission for Minorities disregarded the Wadhwa Commission’s conclusion that Dara Singh had no links to the Bajrang Dal, branding him a member nonetheless.

The Role of Media And Propaganda Films

In 2019, the Christian-funded film The Least of These portrayed Graham Staines as a martyr, focusing on religious harmony while sidestepping serious allegations made against him. Directed by Aneesh Daniel and starring Stephen Baldwin—known for his evangelical Christian activism—the film was criticized for whitewashing Staines’ activities and vilifying Hindu resistance.

Victor Abraham, the film’s producer and founder of Skypass Entertainment, is a known Christian fundamentalist. Despite claims that the movie isn’t propaganda, its promotional campaigns and selective storytelling tell a different story.

Historical Context: Missionary Expansion in Mayurbhanj

Missionary activity in Mayurbhanj dates back to the mid-19th century. According to the 1933 publication Kate Allanby of Mayurbhanj, missionaries often attempted to convert local rulers and leveraged traditional Hindu festivals like the Jagannath Rath Yatra as platforms for proselytization.

The missionaries referred to Lord Jagannath as a “heathen god” and described the Rath Yatra as “evil” and “depressing”. Such historical hostility toward indigenous beliefs remains part of the cultural memory in the region.

The suppression of Hemalata Karua’s testimony, judicial revisions, and selective media portrayals raise critical questions about the narrative construction around the case.

Far from being a simple tale of religious persecution, the story reflects a clash of civilizational values, community rights, and unaddressed grievances.

This article is based on a Reddit post.

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The post Whitewashed By Court, Hijacked By Media: The Real Graham Staines And How He Sexually Exploited Tribals In Odisha appeared first on The Commune.

The Dravidian movement is said to be an offshoot of missionary agenda, and this is proved by the Dravidianists time and again. This time, the Dravidianist lie of attributing the education system in Tamil Nadu to the Christian missionaries has been peddled by none other than DMK Minister PTR Palanivel Thiagarajan.

DMK Minister for Information Technology and Digital Services, Palanivel Thiaga Rajan, highlighted the ‘significant contributions‘ of Christian missionaries in ‘advancing education and healthcare‘ in Tamil Nadu during his address at The American College’s graduation ceremony on Saturday, 29 March 2025.  

Drawing parallels with the Justice Party’s efforts in democratizing education, PTR emphasized that missionaries were instrumental in ensuring equal opportunities for all. “Christian missionaries have played a great role in improving the state of education and health in Tamil Nadu,” he said.  

Addressing the graduating students, Rajan urged them to serve as role models for future generations. He cited distinguished alumni, including orator Solomon Pappiah, artist-writer Manohar Devadoss, and Food and Civil Supplies Minister R. Sakkarapani, as examples of individuals who have brought pride to the institution.  

1,856 undergraduate and 535 postgraduate students received their degrees during the ceremony. The event was attended by Bishop-President Rt. Rev. D. Jeyasingh Prince Prabhakaran, Principal and Secretary M. Davamani Christober, and other dignitaries.

The Dravidianist Lie

It is noteworthy that the traditional Indian education system, where teaching was considered a virtuous profession, was deliberately dismantled by the British. Brahmins, who were primarily teachers and often economically disadvantaged, played a key role in imparting education, but this system was systematically destroyed under colonial rule.  

The Madras province, since 1823, had provided education without discrimination based on caste, religion, or gender. Separate institutions functioned for Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Sanskrit, and other languages, catering to diverse linguistic needs. In the 1820s, education was free for students, ensuring broader access. Interestingly, Shudras were more educated than Brahmins in mother tongue education, indicating that learning was widespread across different social groups.

Historical insights from the book “The First Native Voice of Madras: Gazulu Lakshminarasu Chetty” reveal that a survey ordered by Munroe on educational institutions had shown education was traditionally community-managed, with tax-free community land sustaining the system. However, Munroe’s policies reportedly taxed most of this land, disrupting the existing educational structure. The 19th century was described as a period of extreme oppression, marked by forced conversions and a slave trade allegedly orchestrated by the British.

It is also noteworthy that the East India Company was tasked with evangelizing the people, changing their faith, and bringing them to the Gospel when they came to trade in India. He stated that the British initially considered transitioning from a trading focus to territorial control in Bengal, prompting debates within the British government. However, after deliberation, they concluded that the colonization methods employed in America, Australia, and Canada, involving the destruction of local populations through diseases, were not feasible for India.

All these truths have been buried by the Dravidianists, and they continue to uphold the lie about missionaries being the harbinger of education to TN. It could also be possible that PTR Palanivel Thiagarajan, himself an alumnus of The Lawrence School, Lovedale, was influenced by his alma mater for making such ignorant statements. 

(With inputs from The Hindu)

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The post DMK Minister PTR Says Christian Missionaries Played A Great Role In Improving Education & Health In Tamil Nadu appeared first on The Commune.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has long been a tool for advancing American interests globally. However, recent investigations reveal a disturbing nexus between USAID-funded Christian missionary activities in India, particularly in Manipur, and its alleged connections to Al-Qaeda in Africa. This article delves into the intricate web of funding, organizations, and individuals involved in this complex network, exposing details that have never been seen before.

The Burning House: Manipur And The Golden Triangle

Northeast India, especially Manipur, has historically been a hotspot for Christian missionary activities. Situated in the infamous Golden Triangle of drug trade, Manipur has attracted numerous international Christian missionary organizations. These groups, under the guise of humanitarian work, have been accused of engaging in religious proselytization, often targeting vulnerable tribal communities.

The question arises: Who is funding these activities? The answer lies in a complex network of organizations with deep ties to USAID and other U.S. government agencies.

David Curry And The Anti-India Agenda Connection

David Curry, former Commissioner of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USIRF), stands out as a key figure in this nexus. Known for his anti-India stance, Curry founded Open Doors International, which later merged with Global Christian Relief in 2024. Open Doors publishes the “World Watch List,” which consistently ranks India among the top 15 countries for Christian persecution.

Global Christian Relief is funded by World Vision, a USAID-backed organization that has been accused of funding Al-Qaeda-linked groups in Africa. In India, World Vision collaborates with the India Peace Centre, which is supported by the World Council of Churches (WCC). Declassified CIA reports reveal that the WCC has acted as a CIA front since the 1950s.

The Circle Formed By India Peace Centre And Its Trustees

The India Peace Centre, a key player in this network, is funded by the World Council of Churches and the Council for World Mission. Its trustees include prominent figures like Asir Ebenezer (National Council of Churches in India) and Dhiya Ann Mathew (YWCA of India), both of whom have historical ties to CIA-funded organizations.

Funding The Nexus With “Religious” Dollars

The India Peace Centre receives substantial funding from USAID-backed organizations like Tear Fund, which has channeled over $108 million into India, primarily for Christian missionary activities. Tear Fund’s operations in Manipur have raised eyebrows, especially given the state’s recent ethnic violence.

Pieter Friedrich And Khalistani Links

Pieter Friedrich, a controversial figure, has been at the forefront of protests against the Indian government, particularly regarding the Manipur crisis. Friedrich is closely associated with Bhajan Singh Bhinder, a Khalistani terrorist who founded the Organization for Minorities of India (OFMI), an ISI-funded group. Friedrich’s hunger strike in 2023, supported by Indian Overseas Congress members, highlights the political dimensions of this nexus.

You can read about Bhajan Singh Bhinder and Pieter Dietrich nexus in the below thread.

Bhinder-Pieter opened multiple fronts- from transport companies to publishing houses & ‘co-authored’ many books. Most of these companies were fronts for various activities, opened in the name of Pieter & later taken over by Bhinder around 2011.

(20/n) pic.twitter.com/BpRG0TNwUE

— DisInfo Lab (@DisinfoLab) December 14, 2023

The Political Stooge: Rahul Gandhi And The Congress Connection

During Rahul Gandhi’s visit to the U.S., he was interviewed by Shan Sankaran, a key figure in the Indian Overseas Congress. Sankaran’s ties to USAID and Kashmiri separatists further complicate the narrative. Kirthika Dharan, another Congress affiliate, has been actively involved in Rahul Gandhi’s campaigns, raising questions about the party’s role in this network.

You can read about Sam Pitroda – USAID – Kashmiri Terrorists in US – Khalistani terrorists in US nexus in the below thread:

The Deep state world of Satyanarayan Gangaram Pitroda aka Sam Pitroda

Did you know that from ISI Pakistan to CIA to US government all have colluded to undermine India for decades?
We all read on social media about it.
But in this thread, we will explore how sinister and deep… pic.twitter.com/lR04sBQuYk

— The Story Teller (@IamTheStory__) August 2, 2024

When North Meets South

An interesting twist is that in addition to the Sikh media channels associated with Bhajan Singh Bhinder, Pieter Dietrich is also hosted by Tamil America TV.

The Sex Therapist: Austin Giltus And Tamil America TV

Austin Giltus, founder of Tamil America TV, has a controversial background. Starting his career with Sun TV, a DMK-affiliated channel, Giltus later worked with USAID-funded organizations like Catholic Relief Services and CARE. His involvement in Tamil America TV, which hosts Khalistani and anti-India voices, raises questions about his true agenda.

The Hitjob

In August 2024, CNN released a video under its CNN Freedom Project titled Modern Slavery In India. It was based on a report prepared by Justice Ventures International.

Walk Free, founded by Australian billionaire Andrew Forest, is behind the Global Slavery Index used by Justice Ventures International to target India. Walk Free collaborates with OCCRP, a Soros-funded media organization, further exposing the anti-India propaganda machine.

The Money

Justice Ventures International has received 850,754 USD from the US State Department. Justice Venture International was founded by

• International Justice Mission
• Freedom Fund

The Trail

International Justice Mission has received 40 million USD from the US State Department and USAID. Freedom Fund has received 20.3 million dollars from the US State Department!

You can see how Soros and Omidyar Network are neck deep into the funding of the Freedom fund and this entire circus of the deep state proxies led to three anti-India fronts.

• Hindus For Human Rights
• Indo-American Muslim Council
• The Sikh Coalition

All of them partner with each other and with OFMI (Organization For Minorities in India).

You can read in detail about this entire nexus in this thread:

4. The Woman who changed the US Politics

Rajasvini Bhansali is not an ordinary woman.
Before joining Pam Omidyar's humanity united She was working with Solidaire Network and before that as Executive Director of THOUSAND CURRENTS.

At Solidaire Network Rajasvini founded EMREGENT… pic.twitter.com/UEfC6re3Eo

— The Story Teller (@IamTheStory__) December 8, 2024

Wycliffe Global Alliance

The Wycliffe Global Alliance, accused of being a CIA front, is active in India’s tribal regions. Its mission to translate the Bible into local languages has been criticized as a cover for proselytization. In Manipur, Wycliffe’s activities have fueled tensions between tribal communities.

The Tears Of Blood: Tear Fund And Manipur Violence

Tear Fund, a major recipient of USAID funding, operates extensively in Manipur. In 2023, the organization received over $102 million from USAID, coinciding with the outbreak of violence in the state. Critics argue that Tear Fund’s activities have exacerbated ethnic and religious divisions in the region.

Interestingly, Emmanuel Hospital Association USA has received 1.2 million USD from USAID! It has worked extensively in Manipur under the umbrella of the relief and Rehabilitation program alongside Mennonite Church chapters of India. 

The main objective of the Emmanuel Hospital Association is to open missionary hospitals and clinics in the tribal and remote areas of India in the name of The Church.

But what comes after this is something sinister, we have seen when conversions start happening through medical miracles in the name of Jesus Christ.

The Holy Trail of Blood: Justice Ventures International

Justice Ventures International (JVI), funded by the U.S. State Department and USAID, has been accused of orchestrating anti-India propaganda. JVI’s report on “Modern Slavery in India,” released by CNN, was based on the Global Slavery Index, which is funded by the Walk Free Foundation. Walk Free’s founder, Andrew Forest, has ties to the OCCRP, a Soros-funded media organization known for its anti-India stance.

The Terrorist Vision: World Vision and Al-Qaeda

World Vision, a USAID-funded organization, has been implicated in funding the Islamic Relief Agency (ISRA), a North African branch of Al-Qaeda. Despite being flagged by the U.S. government, World Vision continued to receive funding, raising questions about its operations in India, where it runs orphan child projects accused of facilitating religious conversions.

Read more on World Vision’s operations in India and how Nehru and his dynasty helped World Vision to establish itself in India.

Since 2008, World Vision has received USD 30 Million in contracts and grants. Out of that USD 27 Million was in grants. Its child sponsorship program works for orphan children eventually converting them to Christianity.

In December 2020, the US government’s oversight and investigation unit, the Finance Committee cited that using USAID grants World Vision was funding the Islamic Relief Agency (ISRA) which is the North African branch of Al-Qaeda based in Sudan.

ISRA leadership had been involved in helping Al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden to move to safe locations. ISRA has also funded Hamas. ISRA is a designated terrorist organization. It operated in 40 countries including the US but post US Blacklisting it closed its US office.  It had been working with Osama Bin Laden funded and founded Maqtub Al-Khidmat also.

Despite OFAC (Office Of Foreign Asset Control) flagging ISRA as an Al-Qaeda associate, World Vision sought approval from the US State Department to release funds to ISRA for its existing commitments due to legal pressures from the Sudanese government. The then-US President Barack Obama approved the release of funds. Now imagine the same World Vision running a Christian missionary conversion agenda in India under its Orphan Child Projects.

Agenda Loudspeaker: NAMTA And Evangelical Networks

NAMTA, an Evangelical Baptist Convention, is closely linked to the India Peace Centre and Tear Fund. Its founder, Florence Lowe, has been instrumental in promoting Christian missionary activities in Manipur. NAMTA’s partners include the Baptist World Alliance and the American Baptist Churches, both of which receive substantial funding from U.S. government agencies.

Caritas And Rohingya Crisis

Caritas India, another USAID-funded organization, works with Rohingya refugees and Kuki-Zomi tribes in Manipur. Despite not being recognized by the UNHCR, Caritas has received over $93 million from USAID, raising concerns about its role in the region.

Zomi Innkuan USA And Refugee Networks

Zomi Innkuan USA, a partner of NAMTA, receives funding from U.S. government agencies like the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM). Its ties to resettlement agencies like Church World Service and the International Rescue Committee (IRC), both heavily funded by USAID, highlight the extent of this network.

These organizations work together to provide reception and placement services, employment skills training, housing assistance, and other critical resources to help refugees rebuild their lives in the United States.

The Big Money Cartel

Another supporter of Kuki Community USA – Church World Services has been funded with 9.77 million USD by USAID.

It is also funded by:

• Tides Foundation
• Open Society Foundation
• Islamic Relief
• UNHCR
• US Department of State

Baptist Churches In Manipur

The Manipur Baptist Convention (MBC) is a key player in the region’s Christian missionary activities. Funded by the Baptist World Alliance and American Baptist Churches, the MBC has been accused of promoting religious conversions in tribal areas.

The Mission And The Missionaries

At the start of the year 2024, Assam police arrested two US nationals for illegal Christian missionary activities:

1. James Michael Flinchum
2. Mathew Jone Boone

During the police investigation, James Michael Flinchum disclosed that he has worked as Associate Director of the Baptist General Conference which is a part of Baptist World Churches. Do you understand the zeal and the nexus of the Christian conversion mafia? Both of these arrested Americans were giving bible sermons at Baptist Christian Hospital in Tezpur, Assam!!

The Hidden Missionaries: Sean Tornquist And First Peter Ministries

Sean Tornquist, founder of First Peter Ministries in Manipur, has been accused of supplying weapons and drones to Kuki Christians under the guise of relief work. Tornquist’s family foundation is funded by the Heritage Foundation and Judicial Watch, both of which have deep ties to the U.S. deep state.

You also have the likes of Daniel Stephen Courney who are engaged in conversion in Manipur and also the claims of him having given arms and ammunition to Kuki militants.

In November 2024, Sean Tornquist wrote in his online blog at http://seantorquist.com about how he travelled to Manipur, India at the behest of his Kuki friend and Columbia University classmate and NAMTA Volunteer, to give details of his journey when violence broke out in Manipur. Basically, it was a slap on Indian agencies’ faces because he wrote in detail how he evaded all of them to reach Manipur. This was before Home Minister Amit Shah made it mandatory in late 2024 to seek the Protected Area Permit (PAP) for all foreigners travelling to the Northeast of India.

The USAID nexus in India, particularly in Manipur, reveals a complex web of funding, organizations, and individuals working to advance religious and political agendas. From Christian missionary activities to alleged links with Al-Qaeda, this network underscores the need for greater scrutiny of foreign-funded organizations operating in India.

This article is based on an X thread by The Story Teller.

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The post Exposing The USAID Nexus: Christian Missionaries, Al-Qaeda, And The Manipur Crisis appeared first on The Commune.