Alleged forced conversion of 9-yr-old: Police arrest 2 in Karnataka
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Madikeri: An alleged case of forced religious conversion involving a nine-year-old boy has sparked controversy in Karnataka’s Kodagu district, prompting a police investigation and the arrest of two men accused of facilitating the incident, Siasat reported.
The case was registered following a complaint by the child’s father, Rajeev, who alleged that his son was taken to Kerala’s Malappuram district along with the boy’s mother and subjected to circumcision and religious conversion without his consent. Based on the complaint, Kushalnagar police arrested two accused, identified as Salim and Jaleel, and launched an inquiry into the allegations.
According to the complaint, the child’s mother, Sachita, who worked as a saleswoman in the Nisargadhama Tourist Centre area, came into contact with the accused through her workplace. Investigators are examining claims that she and her son travelled to Manjeri in Malappuram about a month ago and remained there for several weeks. During that period, the boy was allegedly circumcised and converted to another faith.
The matter surfaced after reports of the alleged conversion began circulating in Kushalnagar, leading the father to seek police intervention with the support of local organisations. Authorities later facilitated the return of the child from Kerala. The boy has reportedly been placed under care and counselling, while officials continue to assess his condition. No detailed medical findings have been released so far.
Police are also examining the statement of Sachita, who has reportedly maintained that she adopted the new faith voluntarily after being influenced by religious teachings.
The arrests have intensified public debate in the region, with several groups demanding a comprehensive investigation. Police said all aspects of the case, including the child’s welfare, the alleged conversion and the role of the accused, remain under scrutiny, and further action will depend on the evidence collected during the probe.