In Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, authorities have demolished a church amidst allegations of illegal conversion activities.
This demolition is part of a broader crackdown on “religious conversions.”
The church, reportedly constructed without permission by Vinod Kumar and Ramakant from Ahirura police station, was the subject of local complaints.
Following an investigation, and with a significant police presence, the demolition proceeded.
Notices were issued by the sub-district magistrate’s court to Kumar and Ramakant, but their failure to appear led to the demolition by the police and administrative teams.
Police Superintendent Abhinandan stated, “The church was illegally built on forest department land. We received multiple complaints about conversion activities at the site. In response to these complaints, we took action. Future complaints will be similarly investigated.”
In response, numerous minority and human rights organizations have called for a thorough investigation and stronger protections for religious freedom.