Police at Pinahat police station in Agra have arrested a woman accused of enticing people to convert to Christianity in the area. Christian religious books and literature were recovered from her possession. The accused has been identified as Santosh, alias Minder Kaur, wife of Suresh Nishad, and resident of village Utsana, who is originally from Punjab.
Pressure to Convert in the name of Treating Illness
A complaint was filed by Banarasi, a resident of Kamal Singh Ka Pura, saying his wife has been ill for three years. Despite treatment at many hospitals, she did not get relief. During this time, they met Santosh, who claimed that adopting Christianity would cure her ailments and bring happiness in life.
It is alleged that the woman took advantage of this and pressured the entire family to convert while also promising financial help for treatment.
Books Distributed during the Bhajan Event
Banarasi stated that on August 23, a devotional bhajan program was held at his home. Santosh came there and started singing Christian bhajans, distributing small books to those present. She said that reading these books would bring happiness in life.
Acting on information, police reached the spot and arrested the woman.
Former minister Aridaman Singh also complained to the police officials about the case, after which the police intensified their investigation.
Probe into Missionary Network Links
Police officials said the woman had been promoting Christianity before and a detailed investigation into her network is ongoing. DCP East Zone, Ali Abbas, said the woman’s call records are being analyzed. It is also being investigated who funded her activities and who else may be involved.
Case Registered, Woman Sent to Jail
A case was registered against the accused woman under the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Act. The police produced her in court and sent her to jail.
What is the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Act?
The Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Act aims to prevent forced or induced conversions. Under this law, pressuring or tempting a person to change their religion through fraudulent means or inducements isillegal. Strict action is taken against offenders. The act is designed to maintain social harmony and prevent misuse of religion. Conviction under this law can lead to imprisonment. The arrested woman in this case has been booked under this act.
