Reality of India: Chhattisgarh government to take action against illegal religious conversions by NGOs - TONTUF Politics

Welcome to Reality of India. I’m your anchor, Robin Maan.

In today’s broadcast we have important stories Chhattisgarh The state government is intensifying measures against illegal religious conversions. Additionally, a new anti-conversion law may soon be introduced in the Assembly.

Now, let’s dive into our first story.

The Chhattisgarh BJP government is a firm stance on religious conversions allegedly facilitated by NGOs receiving foreign funding. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced an investigation targeting the financial sources behind these NGOs. Of the 153 NGOs registered under the Foreign Contributions Regulations Act, 52 have affiliations with the Christian community. Investigations are focusing on NGOs that operate in tribal regions, raising suspicions about their activities.

In the conflict-prone Bastar and Jashpur regions, the dynamics between Christian missionaries and local tribal communities have intensified. Reports suggest that approximately 35 percent of Jashpur's population may have converted to Christianity. This alarming rise has prompted the Chief Minister, who represents a tribal background, to express serious concerns.

Let’s turn to our reporter, Kalam Uddin, for more details on the government’s legislative plans.

[Kalam Uddin] Thank you, Robin. The Chhattisgarh government is poised to introduce the Chhattisgarh Religious Freedom Act during the upcoming budget session. The proposed law aims to regulate the conversion process, requiring advance notification of conversions. It criminalizes illegal conversions, especially among vulnerable groups, with penalties ranging from a minimum of 2 years to 10 years in prison and fines up to Rs 50,000.

Additionally, the bill lays the groundwork for compensation to victims, potentially offering up to Rs 5 lakh for those affected by illegal conversions. The responsibility to prove the legality of such conversions would fall on those facilitating them, as well as the individuals converting.

[Robin Maan] Thank you, Kalam. The proposed legislation is stirring significant discussions on religious freedom and community relations in the state.

Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving situation. Thank you for joining us on Reality of India.