A woman identified as an important witness in an alleged religious conversion case in Uttarakhand has told police that she was under pressure to convert to Christianity after being offered financial assistance and gifts by individuals associated with a Christian missionary organisation.

According to police officials, the woman, who is of Nepali origin, recorded her statement before investigators in Uttarkashi on Monday. She alleged that a man identified as Jagdish Thakur, along with others linked to a missionary group, had repeatedly approached her with offers to bear the expenses of her marriage and provide gifts. The woman claimed that these offers were intended to persuade her to convert to Christianity.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Surendra Singh Bhandari stated that the woman informed authorities she had eventually accepted an invitation to a religious programme held on December 23 because of the pressure and inducements she faced. In her statement, she alleged that the organisers wanted her to change her faith.

Police recorded her statement at her residence and indicated that it could be presented before a magistrate if required during the course of the investigation.

The case emerged after a clash took place on December 23 in Devdhung village of Uttarkashi district. According to officials, local villagers confronted organisers of an event attended by Christian clerics, accusing them of engaging in unlawful religious conversion activities. The confrontation led to tensions in the area and prompted police intervention.

Following the incident, cases were registered at the Purola police station against individuals associated with the missionary organisation “Asha Aur Jivan Kendra.” At the same time, legal action was also taken against five villagers in connection with the clash.

The controversy sparked protests by several Hindu organisations, which alleged that Christian missionaries were attempting to convert migrant workers from Nepal through promises of financial support and other benefits. Police have stated that the investigation is ongoing and that all allegations are being examined in accordance with the law.