A case of alleged forced religious conversion involving a nine-year-old boy has created widespread tension in Karnataka’s Kodagu district. Police have launched a detailed investigation and arrested two people after a complaint claimed that the child was taken to Kerala and converted without his father’s consent.
Outrage in Kodagu Over Alleged Conversion Case
The incident, reported from Kushalnagar in Kodagu district, has triggered strong reactions from local groups and residents. The boy’s father, Rajeev, has alleged that his wife and son were taken to Malappuram district and subjected to religious conversion activities.
According to the complaint, the child was allegedly circumcised and converted to another faith while staying in Kerala for several weeks. The matter came to light after local people began discussing the disappearance of the woman and her son.
Complaint Filed After Wife and Son Go Missing
Rajeev, a resident of Kushalnagar in Kushalnagar, told police that his wife, Sachita (also referred to as Sanchita in some reports), worked at a shop near the Nisargadhama Tourist Centre. He alleged that she came into contact with two men, identified as Salim and Jaleel, during her work.
In his complaint, Rajeev said, “My wife and my minor son were influenced and taken to Kerala without my consent. My child was subjected to religious conversion and circumcision.”
He further alleged that the two accused played a role in facilitating the travel and stay of the mother and child in Manjeri in Kerala’s Malappuram district, where they remained for nearly a month.
Police Action and Arrests in the Case
Following the complaint, Kushalnagar police registered a case and arrested two accused persons, Salim and Jaleel. Officials said they are investigating all aspects of the case, including whether coercion, inducement, or criminal intent was involved.
Police sources said, “We are examining the circumstances under which the woman and her son left Karnataka and travelled to Kerala. All evidence is being collected, and further action will depend on the findings.”
Authorities have also confirmed that the child was brought back from Kerala following intervention by local activists and officials. He is currently under care and receiving counselling support due to concerns about possible emotional distress.
Child Brought Back and Given Counselling Support
Officials said the boy may have undergone psychological and physical trauma during the period in Kerala, although medical details have not yet been officially released. Child welfare authorities are monitoring his condition.
Local activists who helped trace the mother and child said the priority is now the child’s recovery and safety. The boy has been placed under protective care as the investigation continues.
Woman Says She Converted Voluntarily
Meanwhile, Sachita has reportedly told investigators that she embraced a new faith on her own and was not forced by anyone. She said her decision was influenced by religious teachings.
According to her statement, “I accepted the faith voluntarily. No one forced me to convert,” she reportedly told investigators.
Police officials said her statement is part of the ongoing inquiry and is being verified along with other evidence in the case.
Officials confirmed that the case is being examined under multiple legal provisions related to child welfare, consent, and alleged unlawful conversion. They added that all statements, digital evidence, and travel records are being verified.
Police said, “The investigation is ongoing. We will take appropriate action based on evidence and legal scrutiny.”
The case continues to draw attention in both Karnataka and Kerala as authorities work to determine whether the allegations of coercion and forced conversion are substantiated.
