Jaipur: Rajasthan Police filed a case under the new Rajasthan Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion Act against two Christian missionaries after a complaint by activists of Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal. The law came into effect in late October and includes strict penalties and non-bailable provisions.
Police identified the accused as Delhi resident Chandy Varghese and Kota resident Arun John. According to the Borkheda Police Station, the two invited people to the Beersheba Church on Canal Road between November 4 and 6 for a spiritual talk. Police claim they attempted to convert attendees. Officers said the complaint included video clips and other material. The event was streamed live on social media.
A case was registered under Section 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for hurting religious sentiments and under Sections 3 and 5 of the new anti-conversion law. The police placed both men in custody. Legal proceedings are underway.
The state government introduced the new law on October 29. Rights groups argue that these laws target minorities. They say the provisions allow sweeping arrests without clear evidence. They also warn that complaints often come from groups linked to the ruling BJP and its affiliates.
A recent US update on India raised concerns about laws directed at Muslims and Christians. It cited anti-conversion laws, cow slaughter laws and changes in citizenship rules. The report linked these measures to the RSS’s stated aim of establishing a Hindu Rashtra. It also referred to the 2002 violence in Gujarat, when Narendra Modi served as chief minister.
