Full Breakdown
Churches Bar Non-Christians in Dhamtari Amid New Anti-Conversion Law
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
In Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh, at least eight churches have posted Hindi notices stating that entry for worship is limited to Christians and that anyone who enters voluntarily does so “at their own risk.” The notices have appeared on historic buildings such as the 116-year-old Sunderganj Mennonite Church and on other prayer venues across the city.
Background & Context
The measures follow the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, which was notified in August 2026 to curb religious conversions. The law requires any person seeking to change faith to submit a declaration to the district administration 60 days in advance. Violations can carry imprisonment of seven to ten years and fines up to Rs 5 lakh; mass-conversion cases may attract ten years to life imprisonment and fines up to Rs 25 lakh.
Data & Statistics
- More than 10 churches in Dhamtari have displayed the notices, with eight specifically reported in recent coverage.
- The notices cite the church management rules that restrict worship to Christians.
Official Statements & Responses
Dr Diamond Filus, general secretary of the Dhamtari District Christian Forum, said the banners are a precaution to avoid action under the new act and to protect the community from right-wing disruptions. He noted that a meeting on September 15 at the Collectorate, attended by representatives of Hindu organisations such as the Sarva Adivasi Samaj, pressured the forum to bar non-Christians.
Shivnarayan Pandey, spokesperson for the state’s ruling BJP, described the issue as a “social” rather than a political dispute, emphasizing that tribal communities oppose conversion because it “divides people” and threatens cultural cohesion.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As a precautionary measure, we have asked our community members to put up the banners outside their homes where people come for prayers,” — Dr Diamond Filus, general secretary of the Dhamtari District Christian Forum
- “They have been put up primarily as a precautionary measure to avoid action under the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 2026,” — Diamond Philus, general secretary of the Dhamtari District Christian Forum
- “As per the rules of the church management, entry into the church building for worship is only for Christians. Others, if they enter voluntarily, will (themselves) be responsible for it.” — Diamond Filus, general secretary of the Dhamtari District Christian Forum