Fresh communal tension gripped parts of Chhattisgarh’s Bilaspur and Durg districts over the weekend after accusations of religious conversions sparked protests and counter-protests.
In Bilaspur’s Sipat locality, nearly 300 Christians had gathered for a prayer meeting when members of local Hindu organizations accused them of conducting forced conversions. Police later booked seven members of the Christian group, which triggered anger within the community. Hundreds of Christians then marched to the police station, demanding that the case be dropped, while Hindu activists also assembled outside, pressing for strict action. The stand-off, marked by loud sloganeering, lasted for hours before police managed to disperse both sides.
In nearby Durg, another prayer gathering turned tense when activists from groups such as the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal alleged conversion attempts. They accused a man identified as John of abusing their members, leading to physical confrontations. Police detained one individual from each side and moved the complaints to another station in an effort to defuse tempers.
Christian leaders strongly denied the allegations, arguing that the charges are based on rumor and political provocation. They maintained that individuals attend church and prayer meetings voluntarily and that conversion claims are often used to harass minority groups. Hindu activists, however, have demanded a strict crackdown, insisting that such activities are increasing in rural areas.
Law enforcement agencies have appealed for calm and confirmed that investigations are underway in both districts. Officials said statements are being recorded from both communities and evidence is being collected before taking further legal steps.
The clashes highlight the growing sensitivity around conversion-related issues in Chhattisgarh, a state that has seen multiple disputes over freedom of religion in recent years.
