A Christian family in Chhattisgarh was reportedly attacked by a group of Hindu activists after refusing to take part in the ‘Ghar Wapsi’ ceremony, according to local sources.
The incident reportedly took place at around 8 a.m. on 2 July, when a group of nearly 100 people surrounded the home of a Christian man identified by local sources as “Kamal Sinha”. The group allegedly demanded that Sinha and his family return to the Hindu faith.
When Sinha refused, tensions reportedly escalated. According to local sources, several members of the group climbed onto the roof of the family’s home and tore it apart, leaving seven family members without adequate shelter during the monsoon rains.
The damage also destroyed the family's stored harvest, which was exposed to rainwater after the roof was removed.
Sinha said the confrontation was led by Bisahu Dhruv, along with Mansa Gawde and Phoolsingh Gawde. According to Sinha, Dhruv told him that the family should leave Christianity and return to Hinduism.
Dhruv allegedly accused the family of disrespecting Hindu religious practices because they no longer worship Hindu deities or take part in traditional offerings. He reportedly warned Sinha that the family would be forced to leave the village if they continued to practise Christianity.
Following the incident and continued pressure, the family was reportedly forced to close its small grocery shop. Local sources also said that the water and electricity supplies to the family's home were disconnected.
The incident comes amid wider reports of Christian families facing pressure and displacement in parts of Chhattisgarh. Hundreds of Christian families have reportedly been forced from their homes this year, with some taking shelter in forest areas after leaving their villages.
Chhattisgarh is among the 13 states that have anti-conversion laws. Christian organisations and advocacy groups have repeatedly raised concerns that such legislation can be used to intimidate or harass Christians.
Based on reporting from International Christian Concern.
