Pastor Arrested in Ballia for Alleged Religious Conversion Activities
The Sikandarpur police in Ballia district has made a significant arrest in connection with alleged unlawful religious conversion activities. Authorities apprehended Jose Thomas, a 47-year-old Christian pastor originally from Patliputra in Patna, Bihar, following a raid on a residential property in Ward-5 of the township.
Details of the Police Operation
According to police reports, the arrest occurred on Sunday when law enforcement officials raided a house owned by Dr. Fareed in Ward-5 of Sikandarpur. The police action came after receiving information about suspicious religious activities taking place at the location.
During the raid, officers discovered Thomas conducting what appeared to be a religious conversion session involving approximately 15-20 women and some children. The session was reportedly aimed at converting participants to Christianity through various means.
Evidence Recovered from the Scene
Police officials recovered substantial evidence from the location, including:
- A sack containing 124 religious books
- A complete music system with sound equipment
- Three microphones and two cables
- A sound box and public address system
- A data cable for electronic devices
Ballia assistant superintendent of police (Northern) Dinesh Kumar Shukla confirmed the recovery of these items, which suggested organized religious activity at the premises.
Allegations Against the Accused
Police authorities have made serious allegations against the arrested pastor. According to their statements, Thomas was allegedly:
- Luring women and children to convert to Christianity during prayer sessions
- Insulting Hindu deities while glorifying Christianity
- Offering financial incentives and job opportunities to encourage conversion
These allegations form the basis of the legal action taken against the accused individual.
Legal Charges and Investigation
Based on a formal complaint, police have registered a case under multiple legal provisions:
- Sections 302 and 352 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
- Section 3/5(1) of the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Act
The case has been officially registered at the local police station, marking the beginning of formal legal proceedings against the accused.
Background of the Accused
During interrogation, Jose Thomas reportedly confessed to authorities that while he originally hails from Kerala, he had been residing at New Patliputra Colony in Patna, Bihar. Police suspect this residence was being used as a base for what they describe as a "conversion racket" operating across state boundaries.
The arrest highlights ongoing concerns about religious conversion activities in the region and demonstrates law enforcement's vigilance in addressing such matters under existing legal frameworks. The investigation continues as authorities examine the recovered materials and gather additional evidence related to the case.
