Daijiworld Media Network- Indore

Indore, Jul 25: Tension gripped the Indore Press Club on Thursday after members of the Bajrang Dal barged into a scheduled press conference and assaulted a group that had gathered to counter allegations of religious conversions in tribal areas of Madhya Pradesh. Among those attacked were men and women, including journalist Saurabh Banerjee, who had organized the event.

Eyewitnesses said the incident unfolded in full public view as Bajrang Dal members pushed, slapped, and even smeared black ink on the faces of the participants. The mob allegedly chased the group to a nearby newspaper office, where the victims were thrashed again—this time with belts and allegedly in the presence of police personnel.

The group had convened to respond to accusations that they were luring tribal villagers in the Dewas forest region into Christianity under the guise of providing social and medical services. Bajrang Dal activists claimed that a large-scale conversion racket was underway in the Shukravasa forest area, with special emphasis on young women.

Saurabh Banerjee, one of the key figures named in a police complaint from Dewas, had come to address the press along with a young woman identified as Nishika. But before the conference could begin, a dramatic turn of events ensued when Nishika’s mother, Ruchi Gaur, arrived at the venue and accused Banerjee of manipulating and alienating her daughter from the family.

Speaking to reporters, Ruchi said, “My daughter was completely brainwashed by this group. She cut all ties with us. We haven't heard from her since January. These people are turning young minds against their families and beliefs.”

Saurabh Banerjee, however, denied all allegations of forced conversion or brainwashing. “We offer basic healthcare services in remote villages. We have no links to any foreign funding or conversion agenda. Not a single villager has been forced to change their religion. Everyone associated with us is over 18 and acts of their own free will,” he stated.

Despite the violence unfolding at a media venue, no arrests had been confirmed at the time of reporting. The incident has sparked outrage among civil rights activists and press bodies, who condemned the assault and called for immediate action against the perpetrators.

Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on whether cases will be filed against the Bajrang Dal members involved in the attack. Meanwhile, calls are growing louder for an impartial probe into both the alleged conversions and the violent disruption of the press conference.