Jaipur: A high-level delegation from the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) met Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Friday, pressing for the enactment of stringent legislation against what they described as a rising tide of illegal and forced religious conversions across the state.
The delegation was led by VHP’s Central President Alok Kumar and included key leaders such as Regional Organization Minister Rajaram, Regional Minister Suresh Upadhyay, and state representatives Parmeshwar, Sundar Kataria, Radheshyam Gautam, and Vivek Diwakar. They presented their concerns to the Chief Minister and demanded immediate legislative intervention.
Planned Conversion Allegations
The VHP leaders alleged that a systematic campaign of religious conversion is underway in various districts of Rajasthan. According to them, this campaign is targeting vulnerable communities through deceit, inducement, and false promises, including misleading claims of miraculous healing and material gains.
They emphasized that these activities not only misguide individuals but also actively malign Hindu deities and cultural values. “Venomous narratives against our gods and traditions are being spread deliberately,” one of the VHP leaders stated during the meeting. “This campaign is aimed at disrupting the social harmony and religious fabric of the state.”
Threat to National Integrity
The delegation expressed concern that illegal conversions pose a significant threat to both the religious faith of Hindus and the broader unity of the country. “This is not just a matter of religion, but a matter that affects the sovereignty and cultural identity of the nation,” they stated. They argued that conversion-related activities are undermining the country’s social cohesion and creating divisions within communities.
Impact on Tribal Communities
The VHP particularly highlighted the adverse effects of religious conversion in tribal-dominated regions of Rajasthan. They claimed that tribal traditions and indigenous cultural identities are being eroded due to aggressive conversion drives. “The unique customs and way of life of tribal societies are under threat,” they said, urging the government to recognize and protect these communities from external religious influences.
The organization noted that tribal people, who have historically practiced distinct cultural traditions, are now facing an identity crisis due to sustained conversion efforts. VHP leaders argued that safeguarding tribal heritage is not only a cultural imperative but also crucial for national integration.
Call for Legislative Action
Calling the existing legal framework inadequate, the VHP delegation demanded that the state government frame and enforce one of the strictest anti-conversion laws in the country. They suggested that the legislation must include provisions for strict monitoring, deterrent-level punishment, and quick legal redressal mechanisms.
They also called for public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the legal and social consequences of illegal conversions. “The state must take proactive measures to ensure that people are not lured into conversions through fraud or emotional manipulation,” a VHP official added.
CM Assures Firm Action
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma reportedly assured the VHP delegation of prompt and decisive action. He acknowledged their concerns and conveyed his intent to initiate discussions with legal and administrative departments to draft a robust anti-conversion law.
“The government is committed to preserving the cultural and religious harmony of the state,” said Sharma. “We will consider all legal avenues to ensure that no community feels threatened or coerced in matters of faith.”
The Chief Minister’s assurance has been received positively by VHP members, who expressed confidence that Rajasthan would soon take significant legislative steps to curb what they believe is a growing menace.
Broader Context
The demand for anti-conversion legislation has been gaining momentum in several Indian states in recent years. Supporters argue that such laws are necessary to prevent religious coercion, while critics often raise concerns about potential misuse and violations of personal freedom and constitutional rights.
As debates continue nationwide, the developments in Rajasthan are likely to reignite broader conversations on religious freedom, minority rights, and the protection of indigenous and traditional cultures.
With the Chief Minister’s assurance, Rajasthan may soon join the list of Indian states with dedicated laws aimed at regulating religious conversions — a move that will undoubtedly spark further political and social discussions in the days to come.
