News for 'forced conversion'

Himanshi Khurana To Asim Riaz: Never Said 'Forceful Conversion'

Himanshi Khurana To Asim Riaz: Never Said 'Forceful Conversion'

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Former couple Himanshi Khurana and Asim Riaz are embroiled in a public spat, with Himanshi alleging 'violence' and 'disrespect' from Asim and vowing to share 'facts and evidence' regarding their breakup.

Gujarat: Pregnant woman accuses 4 men of rape, forced conversion

Gujarat: Pregnant woman accuses 4 men of rape, forced conversion

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The primary suspect in a case involving allegations of repeated rape and forced religious conversion of a pregnant woman in Gujarat's Banaskantha district has been arrested, with efforts ongoing to apprehend three other relatives.

Shamli Court Rejects Bail In Alleged Forced Conversion Case

Shamli Court Rejects Bail In Alleged Forced Conversion Case

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

A court in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, has rejected the bail applications of a woman and her father accused in an alleged forced conversion case. The complaint states that a 30-year-old man was converted to Islam under the pretext of marriage, as part of a conspiracy to seize his property.

Rajasthan Police Arrest Man In Forced Conversion, Blackmail Case

Rajasthan Police Arrest Man In Forced Conversion, Blackmail Case

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Police in Bhilwara, Rajasthan, have arrested Shahid Mansuri on charges of forced religious conversion, sexual assault, blackmail, and financial exploitation of a 35-year-old woman. The woman alleged Mansuri befriended her, sexually assaulted her, blackmailed her with videos, forced her conversion and marriage in Delhi, and along with his family, extorted money and valuables from her. An investigation is ongoing to determine the involvement of others and examine financial transactions.

Man Held In UP For Alleged Forced Conversion Attempt

Man Held In UP For Alleged Forced Conversion Attempt

Rediff.com9 May 2026

A man has been arrested in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, for allegedly kidnapping a woman and attempting to force her religious conversion for marriage.

UN report flags forced conversions of Hindu, Christian women in Pakistan

UN report flags forced conversions of Hindu, Christian women in Pakistan

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

UN experts have voiced serious concerns regarding the ongoing abduction and forced religious conversion through marriage of women and girls from minority communities in Pakistan, highlighting that impunity is fuelling the practice.

Pakistan court returns Hindu girl to family after forced marriage, conversion to Islam

Pakistan court returns Hindu girl to family after forced marriage, conversion to Islam

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

A Pakistani court has ordered the return of 21-year-old Hindu girl Shirimati Reeta to her parents after she was allegedly lured, pressured to convert to Islam, and marry a Muslim man. Reeta, who had gone missing from Sindh, was recovered by police in Punjab and stated in court her desire to return home, highlighting the ongoing issue of forced conversions among minority girls in Pakistan.

UP Man, Parents Face Charges Over Forced Conversion, Marriage

UP Man, Parents Face Charges Over Forced Conversion, Marriage

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

A married man and his parents have been booked for allegedly abducting a girl student from Kolkata, forcing her to convert to another religion, and then marrying her, a senior police officer said on Friday.

'Gym jihad': Gangster Act invoked against 10 for forced conversion of women

'Gym jihad': Gangster Act invoked against 10 for forced conversion of women

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Police in Mirzapur have invoked the Gangster Act against 10 people in the alleged 'gym jihad' case, involving charges of coercion, blackmail, and forced religious conversion of women.

Kerala couple among 7 held in Maha over forced conversion

Kerala couple among 7 held in Maha over forced conversion

Rediff.com31 Dec 2025

Police in Maharashtra's Amravati district arrested a pastor from Kerala and seven others on charges of hurting religious sentiments after allegations of offering money for conversion to Christianity. Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan criticized the arrests.

Goa govt drops plan to table anti-conversion bill

Goa govt drops plan to table anti-conversion bill

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The Goa government has decided not to introduce its anti-religious conversion bill during the ongoing monsoon session of the state assembly, following significant pushback from legislators representing the minority community.

Mumbai churches seek self-declaration forms from worshippers after anti-conversion law

Mumbai churches seek self-declaration forms from worshippers after anti-conversion law

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Churches across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region have started asking worshippers to fill self-declaration forms, affirming they are attending prayers voluntarily. This move comes after Maharashtra's new anti-conversion law, the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, came into force, leading to concerns among the Christian community about potential harassment and false accusations.

Muslim woman alleges forced conversion in UP

Muslim woman alleges forced conversion in UP

Rediff.com28 Jun 2025

Bhadohi (UP), Jun 27 (PTI) A shocking incident of forced religious conversion, sexual exploitation, extortion, blackmailing and humiliation of a woman came to light in Uttar Pradesh's Bhadohi district on Friday, a senior police official said.

Goa cabinet okays anti-conversion bill with life imprisonment

Goa cabinet okays anti-conversion bill with life imprisonment

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

The Goa cabinet has approved the Goa Prohibition of Unlawful Conversions of Religion Bill, 2026, which proposes stringent penalties, including life imprisonment, for religious conversions carried out through force, fraud, or marriage. The bill will be tabled in the state assembly's monsoon session.

SIT Submits Second Chargesheet In TCS Conversion Case

SIT Submits Second Chargesheet In TCS Conversion Case

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the TCS sexual harassment-forced conversion case filed its second chargesheet in a Nashik court on Thursday. The chargesheet pertains to eight FIRs registered at Mumbai Naka police station here under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita provisions against several individuals.

AIMIM corporator held for sheltering TCS conversion case accused Nida Khan

AIMIM corporator held for sheltering TCS conversion case accused Nida Khan

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Nashik police have arrested an AIMIM corporator, Mateen Patel, for allegedly providing shelter to an accused, Nida Khan, in the ongoing TCS "sexual harassment and religious conversion" case. Patel's arrest is part of a larger investigation into nine cases related to alleged exploitation and forceful conversion at a TCS branch.

Social Media Influencer Arrested In Palghar For Rape, 'Love Jihad' Allegations

Social Media Influencer Arrested In Palghar For Rape, 'Love Jihad' Allegations

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

A 22-year-old social media influencer and gym trainer, Arif Ayub Shaikh, has been arrested in Palghar, Maharashtra, on charges of rape, physical abuse, and attempting to force a woman to convert her religion under the guise of marriage. BJP leader Kirit Somaiya has labelled the case as "love jihad," alleging a larger network exploiting young Hindu girls in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Police recovered over 100 explicit video clips from Shaikh's phone, with some potentially distributed abroad.

Bail granted to five accused in TCS harassment-conversion case

Bail granted to five accused in TCS harassment-conversion case

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

A Nashik court has granted bail to five individuals accused in a sexual harassment and forcible conversion case at the local TCS unit. The court cited the completion of the investigation and the filing of the chargesheet, stating there was no serious apprehension of witness tampering. The accused face multiple FIRs related to alleged inappropriate conduct and religious belittling.

Maha panel to combat corporate sector harassment, conversions

Maha panel to combat corporate sector harassment, conversions

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the formation of a committee of women legislators to amend laws and ensure effective implementation against harassment and religious conversion in the corporate sector. This decision follows an incident at a TCS unit in Nashik involving alleged exploitation and forced conversion, which is currently under SIT investigation. Probes have also been ordered into similar complaints at a Spanish multinational in Pune and a government ITI in Solapur, highlighting a broader issue of workplace misconduct.

Maha to act on forced conversions, SC quota misuse: Fadnavis

Maha to act on forced conversions, SC quota misuse: Fadnavis

Rediff.com17 Jul 2025

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the state government's intention to introduce strong provisions to deal with religious conversions done using force or cheating. A panel has submitted recommendations, and the government will study and implement necessary changes. The move comes amid claims of misuse of religious freedom and concerns about conversions through coercion and deceit.

TCS employee Nida Khan gets bail in alleged sexual harassment and conversion case

TCS employee Nida Khan gets bail in alleged sexual harassment and conversion case

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

A Nashik court has granted bail to TCS employee Nida Khan, arrested two months ago in connection with alleged sexual harassment and religious conversion cases at the company's unit. Her co-accused, Danish Shaikh, was denied bail. Khan's bail was sought on grounds of pregnancy, while the prosecution argued against it, citing evidence of sexual assault and religious coercion, including attempts to convert a Scheduled Caste victim. A Special Investigation Team is investigating nine such cases at the TCS Nashik unit, and TCS has stated a zero-tolerance policy.

Meerut Model Accuses Man Of Exploitation, Religious Conversion Pressure

Meerut Model Accuses Man Of Exploitation, Religious Conversion Pressure

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

A Meerut model has filed a complaint alleging a man exploited her physically and financially for nearly a decade on the promise of marriage, later pressuring her for religious conversion. Police have initiated an investigation into the matter, which also includes allegations of financial fraud and forced abortions.

Rs 500-cr audio clip sparks row; Jarange alleges plot to crush Maratha stir

Rs 500-cr audio clip sparks row; Jarange alleges plot to crush Maratha stir

Rediff.com20 minutes ago

Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange has alleged a conspiracy to silence him, demanding a probe into a viral audio clip that claims Rs 500 crore was paid to him via Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde. Ruling Shiv Sena leaders have vehemently denied these allegations, calling them a 'conspiracy to defame' Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the party, and have called for a forensic investigation into the audio clip, suggesting the speakers are from the BJP.

Police Hunt For TCS Employee Over Conversion Claims

Police Hunt For TCS Employee Over Conversion Claims

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Police are searching for a TCS employee, Nida Khan, in connection with alleged forced conversions at the company's Nashik unit. This follows allegations of sexual harassment and religious coercion at the TCS facility, where several arrests have already been made.

Mirzapur Man Arrested Over Alleged Forced Religious Conversion Attempt

Mirzapur Man Arrested Over Alleged Forced Religious Conversion Attempt

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

A 22-year-old man was arrested in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, for allegedly kidnapping a young woman and attempting to forcibly convert her religion. The arrest followed a complaint by the woman's mother, leading to charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act.

Chhattisgarh Government Tables Bill to Prevent Forced Religious Conversions

Chhattisgarh Government Tables Bill to Prevent Forced Religious Conversions

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

The Chhattisgarh government has introduced a bill in the state assembly to prevent religious conversions carried out through force, inducement, fraud, or misrepresentation. The bill, titled the Chhattisgarh Dharm Swatantraya Vidheyak, 2026 (Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026), aims to curb conversions achieved through coercion or undue influence.

Meet American Singer Mary Millben, Modi Supporter

Meet American Singer Mary Millben, Modi Supporter

Rediff.com7 days ago

American singer Mary Millben has become a prominent figure in Indian political discourse due to her outspoken support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, using social media to defend him against critics and appeal to young Indians, despite her musical career being less known in the country.

'China's Process Is Top Secret, Like Nuclear Codes'

'China's Process Is Top Secret, Like Nuclear Codes'

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

Shooter Rudrankksh Patil, a world champion and Asian Games gold medallist, shares his extraordinary journey, from finding shooting boring to achieving global success, while also shedding light on China's formidable and secretive dominance in the sport.

Little Thomas Review: Lost In Cuteness

Little Thomas Review: Lost In Cuteness

Rediff.com1 days ago

Little Thomas may have its heart in the right place, but its storytelling never quite catches up with its intentions, rues Mayur Sanap.

How India And China Nearly Avoided 1962 War

How India And China Nearly Avoided 1962 War

Rediff.com3 days ago

The conversations on July 22 and 23, 1962, meetings in Geneva between V K Krishna Menon, India's defence minister at the time, and Chinese vice premier Chen Yi are important because, had they been followed up, the subsequent border war may perhaps have been avoided, notes former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

Play loud music on trains, face Rs 1,000 fine or jail

Play loud music on trains, face Rs 1,000 fine or jail

Rediff.com2 days ago

Indian Railways zones are implementing measures to curb the nuisance of passengers playing loud music or videos on mobile phones in trains and railway premises. Violators could face fines up to Rs 1,000 or imprisonment for up to six months. This move comes after numerous complaints and recent amendments to railway laws, though some passenger bodies express concerns about enforcement manpower.

US pushes to end Ukraine war as American envoy Witkoff meets Putin

US pushes to end Ukraine war as American envoy Witkoff meets Putin

Rediff.com16 hours ago

United States special envoy Steve Witkoff engaged in high-stakes talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday in St. Petersburg. The aim of the meeting was to advance proposals to end the war in Ukraine and establish a pathway towards broader negotiations.

Chhattisgarh Introduces Bill to Prevent Religious Conversions by Force

Chhattisgarh Introduces Bill to Prevent Religious Conversions by Force

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

The Chhattisgarh government has introduced a bill aimed at preventing religious conversions through force, inducement, or misrepresentation, sparking opposition and debate in the state assembly.

TCS Employee Arrested Over Religious Conversion Allegations

TCS Employee Arrested Over Religious Conversion Allegations

Rediff.com8 May 2026

A female employee of TCS in Nashik has been arrested in connection with alleged religious conversion and sexual harassment of female colleagues. Nida Khan was apprehended in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar after weeks of being in hiding. The case involves allegations of forced religious practices and harassment within the TCS unit.

Another arrest made in Ayush Malik conversion case

Another arrest made in Ayush Malik conversion case

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Police in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, have made another arrest in an alleged unlawful religious conversion case, recovering a 'nikahnama' from the accused. The case involves Ayush Malik, who his father claims was forcibly converted, but Ayush himself states his conversion to Islam was voluntary. Legal action has been initiated against nine people, and Hindu organisations are demanding strict measures.

Key Arrests In Lucknow Cafe Owner Shiva Sharma Death Case

Key Arrests In Lucknow Cafe Owner Shiva Sharma Death Case

Rediff.com1 days ago

Model Shraddha Dubey, her driver Danish, and sister Rashmi Dubey have been arrested in Nagpur in connection with the death of Lucknow cafe owner Shiva Sharma. Sharma's family alleges he was assaulted and tortured before his death, leading to a murder investigation. Dubey denies involvement, claiming Sharma jumped due to debt.

TCS Employee Arrested In Religious Conversion, Harassment Case

TCS Employee Arrested In Religious Conversion, Harassment Case

Rediff.com8 May 2026

A female employee of TCS in Nashik has been arrested in connection with a case involving alleged religious conversion and sexual harassment of female colleagues. Nida Khan was apprehended after weeks of being in hiding. The Nashik police are investigating multiple cases of molestation and harassment at the TCS unit.

Court Denies Bail To TCS Employee In Conversion Case

Court Denies Bail To TCS Employee In Conversion Case

Rediff.com4 May 2026

A Nashik court denied pre-arrest bail to a TCS employee accused of sexual harassment and forcible conversion, citing a 'systematic plan' to brainwash the victim and send her to Malaysia. The court emphasised the need for custodial interrogation to uncover the root of the case, highlighting the multi-dimensional nature of the alleged offence.

Hindu Raksha Dal chief claims activists attacked protestors

Hindu Raksha Dal chief claims activists attacked protestors

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Groups of men wearing saffron scarves, claiming affiliation with the Hindu Raksha Dal, threatened and assaulted demonstrators during Saturday's protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in central Delhi. Four members have been arrested for an assault on DDU Marg, while videos show larger groups operating unhindered, openly supporting police and administration, and justifying violence against "anti-national" protesters. The group's chief, Pinki Chaudhary, claimed responsibility for the attacks on social media.

Modi, Trump talk on phone amid sanctions threat

Modi, Trump talk on phone amid sanctions threat

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation to review progress in bilateral ties, covering trade, defence, and energy, against the backdrop of heightened trade friction due to the 'Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026'.