The police detained four individuals, including a woman, from Amrai Sanjay Nagar in Bagh Sewania after allegations of forced religious conversions raised by Bajrang Dal activists.
They were later releassed and notices have been issued to persons concerned.
The incident, which created a significant uproar on Sunday, involved accusations of coercion against Shiv Kumar Jharkade, Rachna Goswami, Priyanka, and another individual. The police acted on a complaint lodged by Amit Kewat, a 27-year-old resident of Sanjay Nagar, who claimed that the accused were pressuring others to change their religion.
Religious literature, pamphlets, and boards with slogans were reportedly recovered from their possession. However, after issuing notices, the police released the detainees around 7 PM the same day.
Bagh Sewania police station in-charge (TI) Amit Soni stated that since the alleged offense carries a punishment of less than seven years, the accused were not held in custody.
He added that the police are investigating potential funding connections, including foreign links, associated with the accused.During interrogation, the accused denied the allegations, asserting that they were conducting a peaceful prayer meeting at their residence and that no coercion was involved. "We only share the goodness of our religion and explain the purpose of life. People come to us voluntarily. The allegations of forced conversions are baseless," they said.
In contrast, Bajrang Dal representative Munna Lal Sahu alleged that the group had targeted a local family by initially offering help with medical treatment for a child, followed by promises of better education and financial support. Sahu claimed that the family was later pressured to convert, prompting them to approach the Bajrang Dal for help.
Meanwhile, women who arrived at the Bagh Sewania police station to support the accused dismissed the allegations as unfounded. Geeta Bai, one of the women, said, "No one forced us. We go to Shiv Kumar’s house willingly. When our children went astray and the police detained them, we paid hefty amounts to secure their release. Bajrang Dal didn’t help us then. We have embraced God with full consciousness and will not turn back."The case has sparked debate, with both sides presenting contrasting narratives. Police investigations into the incident and any potential financial connections continue.
