In December 2021, the Madhya Pradesh Police arrested three individuals, including a Catholic priest and a pastor, in Jhabua district following allegations of unlawful religious conversion. The action was taken under the provisions of the Madhya Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 2021. The incident attracted attention as Jhabua, a predominantly tribal district, had witnessed several disputes and complaints related to alleged religious conversion activities in recent years.
The case originated from a complaint filed by a 26 year old tribal resident, Tetiya Bariya, along with another villager, Surti Bai. According to the complaint submitted to the Kalyanpura Police Station, the accused individuals allegedly attempted to persuade them to adopt Christianity by offering benefits such as free education and medical treatment. The complainants claimed that they were invited to a prayer gathering where religious teachings were conducted and efforts were made to encourage conversion.
Tetiya Bariya stated that he and Surti Bai attended the gathering but declined the proposal to change their religion. Following the meeting, they approached the police and reported the matter. Based on the complaint, authorities initiated an investigation and registered a First Information Report against the accused.
Police officials identified the three accused as Father Jam Singh Dindore, Pastor Ansingh Ninama, and Mangu Mehtab Bhuriya. The case was registered under Sections 3, 5, and 10(2) of the Madhya Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, which addresses religious conversions carried out through force, fraud, coercion, or inducement.
Confirming the development, local police officials stated that the complaint alleged attempts to influence individuals to convert through promises of educational and healthcare assistance. After reviewing the allegations, the police arrested the accused and produced them before a court. The court subsequently ordered their judicial custody.
The incident formed part of a broader debate surrounding religious conversion laws in India. Supporters of such legislation argue that it helps prevent coercive or fraudulent conversions, while critics contend that it can affect the activities of religious minorities and charitable organizations. The allegations in the Jhabua case remained subject to investigation and legal proceedings.