RAIPUR: Allegations of religious conversions triggered violent clashes in Chhattisgarh’s Bilaspur, Durg, and Ambikapur over the weekend, leaving at least 13 people injured and dozens booked. Police registered multiple cross-cases as protests spread across the districts.
Bilaspur | Stones Fly at Prayer Meet
In Bilaspur’s Sipat area, a Sunday evening prayer meet of over 150 people turned violent after right-wing activists accused the group of conversion activities. Stone pelting broke out between those inside the house and activists outside, injuring 10 members of the minority community and three from right-wing groups.
Seven people were detained, and cross FIRs were filed against at least 19 individuals. Police charged 12 right-wing members with rioting and damaging public property, while seven from the minority group were also booked.
Durg | Man Assaulted, Protests Follow
In Durg’s Padmanabhpur area, activists confronted a prayer gathering near Bafna Mangalam. Police said a heated exchange escalated after a man allegedly abused the activists, who then beat him with sticks. His detention sparked protests by the minority community.
Additional SP Sukhnandan Rathore said both sides have been counselled, while right-wing groups demanded the man’s expulsion and a financial probe, warning of further agitation.
Ambikapur | Case Under Anti-Conversion Law
In Ambikapur’s Manpat region, a woman was booked under the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act for allegedly attempting to convert six tribal girls without parental consent. Police said parents’ statements have been recorded and further investigation is underway.
Authorities across districts have tightened security and appealed for calm as tensions remain high.
