Daijiworld Media Network – Mandya
Mandya, Apr 14: A disturbing case of alleged religious coercion and violence has emerged from Palahalli village near Srirangapatna in Mandya district, where a woman and her mother were reportedly assaulted for resisting conversion to Christianity. Police have filed an FIR against her husband and eight others in connection with the incident.
The victim, Laxmi, and her mother Shruthi, have accused Laxmi’s husband Srikanth and his family of pressuring them to convert to Christianity and physically attacking them during a supposed compromise meeting. The complaint was filed by Laxmi’s brother, Ravikiran, at Pattana police station.
According to the complaint, Laxmi, who has been married to Srikanth for 15 years, faced increasing pressure to adopt Christianity after her husband’s family converted a few years into the marriage. Laxmi, a devotee of Goddess Chamundeshwari, refused to abandon her faith. This, the family alleges, led to sustained harassment and domestic abuse.
In a shocking claim, the family also stated that Srikanth demanded money from Laxmi’s parents, prompting them to hand over Rs 25 lac in hopes of securing a better life for their daughter. However, the money was allegedly used to build a church and carry out religious conversions.
Speaking to the media, Shruthi said, “They did not allow my daughter to wear a bindi or worship Hindu gods. Conversions have been happening in this village for over a decade. People are lured with money, and those who convert receive lacs. Many identify as Christians in society but declare themselves Hindu on paper to receive government benefits.”
Shruthi alleged that when she and her daughter were invited to discuss a resolution, they were instead attacked with an iron rod by Srikanth and his family members.
The FIR names Srikanth and eight others as accused, and police have begun an investigation into the case. The incident, which came to light on Sunday, has sparked outrage in the region, with locals demanding strict action against those involved.
Laxmi, who was sent back to her parents’ home four months ago due to ongoing harassment, reportedly attempted suicide recently, unable to cope with the alleged abuse.
As the police continue their probe, the case has raised serious concerns over forced conversions, misuse of funds, and the safety of women within households caught in religious disputes.