Stopping Religious Conversion Of Tribals To Christianity A Priority: Chhattisgarh Deputy CM Sao Hints At Bringing Law

The recently inaugurated Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led state government in Chhattisgarh is expected to introduce either legislation or administrative measures to halt religious conversion within the state.

In a one-on-one conversation with News18, Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao expressed his concern about the critical issue of the tribal population's religious conversion to Christianity by Missionaries operating throughout the state. He emphasised the need for appropriate government interventions to address this matter.

Sao, who previously served as the state's BJP chief for more than a year, emphasized the necessity to halt the conversion of the tribal population within the state. He identified this as a critical issue that demands attention and assured that all possible steps within the legal ambit would be taken to curb this.

He further highlighted that one of the government's key priorities is to prevent religious conversion and assured that pertinent decisions will be made following the formation of the council of ministers and the convening of the government's second cabinet meeting.

For a considerable period, the RSS has been advocating for an anti-conversion law in the state. Despite the persistent demands from the RSS and its associates for a legislation to prevent conversions, Raman Singh's administration has resisted, asserting that development is the sole focus.

Additionally, the RSS and its affiliates have led a campaign calling for the removal of tribals who convert to Christianity from the tribal list.

Vishnu Deo Sai has become the first tribal chief minister of the state, with Arun Sao representing the OBC community after the BJP snatched power from Bhupesh Baghel-led Congress in the recently held elections.