New Delhi: Muslims in India are facing challenges from multiple directions. While Hindu extremist groups continue their aggressive “Ghar Wapsi” campaigns, attempting to convert Muslims to Hinduism through financial inducements, Christian missionaries are also reportedly targeting economically weaker Muslims, luring them with financial aid and other benefits.
Recent reports highlight a concerning trend of conversions in the border districts of Uttar Pradesh, particularly among the Nat community. In February 2025, six Muslim families in Hargao, Katsariya (Sudholi), and Kamalapur of Sitapur district embraced Christianity, allegedly influenced by missionary groups. Similarly, ten Muslim Nat families in Ambedkar Nagar and Sultanpur converted due to financial hardships. Notable signs of conversion include the abandonment of Islamic symbols, with Christian imagery, such as portraits of Jesus Christ, appearing in their homes. Security agencies have expressed serious concerns over these developments.
The situation is particularly alarming in the border areas of Balrampur and Shravasti, where a large number of Nat community members have reportedly embraced Christianity. These converts are said to receive monthly stipends, free education, and healthcare support. Aslam Khan, a Muslim who converted in Balrampur, stated that his family struggled to survive earlier, but with missionary assistance, their situation has improved significantly.
Former Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer Santosh Singh has pointed out that Maharajganj district in the Gorakhpur division, bordering Nepal, has witnessed a sharp rise in conversions. In Pharenda tehsil, hundreds of Karwal families in Jogibari forest have become Christians, while in Mathranagar, an entire Karwal settlement has converted. These individuals actively participate in Sunday prayer gatherings, celebrate Christian festivals, and send their children to well-established convent schools, receiving consistent financial support from missionary organizations.
The targeting of economically vulnerable Muslims through financial inducements for conversion is a serious matter that requires urgent attention. Muslim religious organizations and community leaders must investigate these incidents, support affected families, and work towards strengthening Islamic awareness and economic resilience within the community.
At a time when Muslims are already facing hostility from Hindu extremist groups, Christian missionaries are exploiting their financial struggles and lack of religious education to draw them away from Islam. This dual challenge highlights the need for stronger community engagement, economic support initiatives, and religious education programs to protect vulnerable Muslims from such influences.
