Odisha: Church in Bhadrak sealed after reports of religious conversions

Image used for representational purpose

BALASORE: Authorities in Bhadrak sealed the gates of a church located following complaints of religious conversions since May 17.
The administration also imposed prohibitory order under Section 144 of the CrPC in Geltua village under Rural police station area to ensure law and order.
Not more than three persons can assemble near the church, officials said.
“We had received a complaint from Bajrang Dal regarding tribals being converted to Christianity in the church,” said Manoj Patra, sub-collector of Bhadrak on Tuesday.
A probe by the Bhadrak Tahsildar and Rural PS in connection with the incident revealed some breach of peace between communities, he added.
Manas Mohanty, a Bajrang Dal activist alleged that gullible Hindu tribals were being lured and converted to Christianity in the church on a regular basis.
“Therefore, we immediately gave a written complaint to the district administration to stop the practice,” said Mohanty.
Local tribals however said they just come to pray in the church and are totally in the dark regarding alleged conversions.