In a startling revelation from Chhattisgarh’s Bemetara area, more than 25 members of the tribal community have reportedly converted to Christianity. The conversions allegedly occurred in houses constructed under the Prime Minister Awas Yojana (PM Housing Scheme). Shockingly, some of these houses now bear the Christian symbol ‘cross’ outside.
The incident has triggered outrage among several Hindu organisations, prompting them to lodge a complaint with the administration. It is alleged that the tribals were enticed into conversion with promises of improved healthcare and economic benefits, which is punishable by law.
Reports suggest that the conversions took place in the Khamhariya area under the jurisdiction of Bemetara police station. Members of Hindu organisations discovered that five families from the Gond community in Ward Number 13 had altered their worship practices and lifestyle significantly. These families, who used to travel to Raipur for prayers, now gather in a house built under PM Awas Yojana near their own homes, which they have transformed into a makeshift church.
According to ground reports from Hindi outlet Hari Bhoomi, those who converted claim that attending church has brought healing to a sick woman named Guddi and has also contributed to increasing their income and overcoming addiction. Notable individuals among the converts mentioned include Lambha Sonvani, Basamund Jogi, Murli Jogi, and Devki Chhedaiya.
Previously, these individuals used to attend churches in cities like Durg, Raipur, Bhilai, and Kawardha for prayers. However, they have now established what appears to be the only ‘church’ in the entire tehsil area in a house built under the PM Housing Scheme, where Christian books and symbols are prominently displayed.
The converted individuals claim that despite their conversion, they are yet to receive their caste certificates or any benefits from government schemes. They attribute their newfound prosperity, including loans they’ve acquired for purchasing a car, to their faith in Jesus.
In response to the incident, Hindu organisations have demanded action against those responsible for the conversions, with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad calling for the sealing of houses displaying cross symbols. Bemetara’s District Magistrate Ranveer Sharma has assured an investigation into the matter and appropriate action.
