Controversy erupts in Jashpur over conversion of seven Hindu families to Christianity, complaint filed against Pastor of Ajdha's Church
Jashpur, Chhattisgarh, India 
1 October, 2024
Case Summary
In Jashpur, a controversy surfaced regarding religious conversions involving seven Hindu families from the Bhuinhar community. A formal complaint was filed against the Pastor of Ajdha Church in the Manora development block, accusing him of converting these families. Members of the Bhuinhar community submitted a memorandum to the Collector and SP, requesting an investigation into the matter and the registration of an FIR. The community pressed legal action, calling for the examination of relevant documents, including the Church’s baptism register, which was seized for review. They stated that the conversions were carried out without proper administrative knowledge or permission. The community also raised concerns over the burial of Rajendra Chaurath in a Christian cemetery and demanded action in this regard.
Why it is Hate Crime ?
This case has been categorized as 'Undecided' due to the absence of definitive evidence indicating that the conversions in question were predatory in nature. While it has been established that conversions occurred, there is currently no testimony from the victims or any documented proof of coercion, inducement, or harassment employed to facilitate the conversions to Christianity. Without these critical elements, it cannot be conclusively determined whether the conversions were forced or manipulative. As a result, the case remains in the 'Undecided' category, reflecting the current lack of clarity regarding the nature of the incident. However, this classification is subject to change. Should future evidence emerge that demonstrates coercive tactics or any form of undue influence in these conversions, the case will be reassigned to the appropriate category. Disclaimer: In this case, it is mentioned that members of 7 families were converted to Christianity. However, the exact number of individuals involved in the conversion is not specified. Due to this lack of clarity, we have relied on the most recent Indian census data, which indicates that the average family size in India is approximately 4.8 members per household. To ensure a standardized estimation, we have opted to consider an average of 5 members per family. Based on this approach, the estimated total number of victims in this case is calculated as 35 individuals.
Victim Details
Total Victim
35
Deceased
0
Gender
- Male 0
- Female 0
- Third Gender 0
- Unknown 35
Caste
- SC/ST 0
- OBC 0
- General 0
- Unknown 35
Age Group
- Minor 0
- Adult 0
- Senior Citizen 0
- Unknown 35
Case Status
Complaint filed
Perpetrators Details
Perpetrators
Christian Extremists
Perpetrators Range
One Person
Perpetrators Gender
male
Sources 
