Jashpurnagar, Chhattisgarh: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has constituted a four-member committee to investigate the alleged incident of religious conversion in Dhengani village, Manora block. The incident sparked protests from the Bhuihar community, escalating tensions in the region.

Investigation Team Announced

BJP state president Kiran Singh Deo announced the formation of the committee, which will be led by Shivratna Sharma, the party’s state vice president. The panel includes:

• Renuka Singh, MLA from Bharatpur-Sonhat.
• Radheshyam Rathiya, MP from Raigarh.
• Gomti Sai, MLA from Pathalgaon and vice president of Sarguja Development Authority.

Incident and Protests

The controversy began after a young man from the Bhuihar community, Rajendra Chorat, passed away due to a natural calamity. Allegations emerged that individuals who had converted to Christianity conducted his last rites according to Christian customs, against the wishes of his family.

Community members staged protests in Korokotoli, Manora, and Kharkona, demanding an investigation and appropriate action. The protesters lodged a complaint at the Astha police station, emphasizing that Chorat, born into the Bhuihar community, had converted to Christianity after marrying a Christian woman.

After his death, Chorat’s parents and family wished to perform the last rites as per Bhuihar customs, but consensus could not be reached. The family accused the Christian community of overriding their wishes and conducting the funeral according to Christian traditions.

Rising Tensions

The incident has sparked widespread debate, with the community accusing local authorities of inaction. Sunil Gupta, BJP district president, noted the community’s growing discontent and called for immediate intervention to address their concerns.

In response, the Bhuihar community organized human chains and marches from Dhengani to the CM’s camp office in Bagia, demanding justice.

Allegations Against MLA Rai Munni Bhagat

Adding to the controversy, Jashpur MLA Rai Munni Bhagat has been accused of making objectionable remarks about Jesus Christ. Dissatisfied with the police's refusal to take up the matter, complainants have been advised to approach the court. Protests against the police's stance have intensified, with demonstrators alleging bias and neglect.

Next Steps

The BJP’s investigation team will visit Dhengani to gather facts and meet the affected families. Meanwhile, tensions continue to rise, with both communities demanding their voices be heard. The local administration has urged calm and pledged to monitor the situation closely to avoid further escalation.

This incident highlights the sensitive nature of cultural and religious matters in the region and underscores the need for swift and impartial action to resolve the conflict.