The villagers of Sadaksahi led by sarpanch Sudam Charan Beura of Kandarei panchayat in Athagarh sub-division have alleged before Cuttack District Magistrate Girish SN regarding the conversion of several tribal Hindu families to Christianity by coercion, fear and attraction of facilities in their village during the last fortnight.
According to sources, two unknown women from outside were engaged in persuading the tribals to convert to Christianity on the promise that all their needs in life would be met after conversion. Toilets and water sources have been constructed for the converts’ benefits.
A thatched house has been developed into a church at the village, the sources said. At village Patiasahi under the same panchayat, some residents warned the converters against their move, for which they left the place. Since the situation has turned tense in the area due to religious conversion, the villagers have intimated the issue to the district administration.