Two Arrested in Separate Cases of Alleged Forced Religious Conversion

Kathmandu, Nepal – Police have apprehended two individuals in different districts on charges of forcibly converting others to another religion, highlighting growing concerns about religious coercion in the country.

Morang District Case

In the first incident, authorities arrested 37-year-old Khagendra Bikal from Sundarharaincha Municipality-6, Namuna Chowk. The arrest came after allegations surfaced that Bikal had forcibly converted a 14-year-old girl to another faith. Officers from the Gachhiya Police Post took him into custody on Saturday evening following a formal complaint filed by the victim's family.

Udaypur District Case

Meanwhile, in a separate incident, police detained 48-year-old Gajendra Giri from Chaudandigadhi Municipality-9, Hadia. Giri stands accused of coercing a 24-year-old woman into religious conversion. The Belatar Area Police Office carried out the arrest on Saturday based on the victim's complaint.

Legal Action and Investigations

Both cases are currently under active police investigation. Forced religious conversion is considered a serious criminal offense under Nepali law, punishable by imprisonment. Authorities have emphasized their commitment to protecting citizens' religious freedoms and preventing coercive practices.

Growing Concerns Over Religious Coercion

These arrests come amid increasing reports of forced conversions targeting vulnerable groups, including women and minors. Human rights organizations have called for stricter enforcement of laws against religious coercion while ensuring the protection of all faiths.

Police officials urge citizens to report any instances of forced conversion to local authorities immediately.