ASIA/INDIA - Christian leaders in Orissa state protest against forced re-conversion campaign by Hindu extremists

Bhubaneshwar (Agenzia Fides) - Christian leaders in the eastern Indian state of Orissa say steps must be taken to stop the phenomenon of forced “re-conversion” among Tribals who have embraced the Christian faith and are being forced to “return to the Hindu religion” with a practice which Hindu fundamentalists call “coming home”.
Catholic and Protestant church leaders in Orissa have called on the authorities to put an end to a violent re-conversion campaign which is creating tension between communities of different religions. They mention in particular a ceremony organised on 20 October in Mayurbhanj, when 76 Christians were forced to “return to” Hinduism. The ceremony was organised by members of the Sangh Parivar Hindu extremist movement.
The Catholic Bishops say one way to end the phenomenon is to educate Tribals and inform them of their right to choose their religion. Re-conversions and religious violence are not new to Orissa where Hindu fundamentalist movements and the nationalist policies of the ruling Baratiya Janata Party, have often led to attacks on Christian institutions and persons.
Orissa state adopted the law that conversions must be examined and authorised by a magistrate, a law which the local Catholic Church has said is discriminatory, a violation of individual freedom of conscience and anti constitutional. Christian programmes to promote economic, social and cultural development among Tribals, are often labelled as “religious proselytism” by extremists.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 11/11/2004 Righe: 29 Parole: 311)