Chhattisgarh Villages Ban Christian Pastors Amid Conversion Fears
Several villages in Chhattisgarh have sparked nationwide controversy by installing hoardings prohibiting Christian pastors from entering their communities. The decision, taken by local gram sabhas in tribal-dominated areas like Narayanpur and Kondagaon, cites concerns over religious conversions. A Kerala-based church has condemned the move as the “most divisive boundary since Partition,” reigniting debates over religious freedom and tribal rights.
What Do the Hoardings Say?
Large banners at village entrances declare:
– “Religious conversions prohibited here”
– “Outsider pastors not allowed”
Tribal leaders argue the ban protects indigenous culture from forced conversions. A Narayanpur village head (anonymous) claimed, “Missionaries lure people with money, eroding our traditions.” Christian groups deny these allegations, asserting their work is purely humanitarian.
Kerala Church’s Strong Condemnation
The St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India sharply criticized the hoardings as “unconstitutional and communal.” Bishop Joseph Mar Barnabas stated:
“This isn’t just a village boundary—it’s the most divisive line since Partition. It violates Article 25 (freedom of religion). Why target only Christians?”
The Bishop accused the state government of ignoring the issue for political gains, especially before elections.
Legal & Political Battles
- BJP alleges missionaries disrupt tribal heritage.
- Congress claims BJP stokes communal tension.
Legal experts debate the bans’ validity. While gram sabhas have autonomy under Panchayati Raj, constitutional rights like Article 25 may override them. Advocate Rakesh Mishra noted: “Local bodies can’t suppress fundamental rights.”
Tribal Perspectives on Conversion
Chhattisgarh’s tribal communities (Sarna Dharma followers) are divided:
– Pro-Christian: A Bastar woman said, “I converted willingly—no force.”
– Anti-Conversion: Others allege missionaries tie aid to conversion, calling it unethical.
National Implications & What’s Next?
Similar tensions exist in UP, MP, and Karnataka, but Chhattisgarh’s visible bans mark a new escalation. Activists like Priyanka Dubey urge dialogue over exclusion.
The state government faces pressure to either uphold gram sabha rulings or enforce constitutional rights—a decision that could shape religious freedom in tribal India.
For now, the hoardings remain, symbolizing a deepening divide.
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