Madikeri: An alleged case of religious conversion involving a woman from Kushalnagar and her nine-year-old son has triggered widespread debate and outrage in Kodagu district, with police launching an investigation into the circumstances under which the conversion allegedly took place.
According to a complaint filed with the Kushalnagar Police, Rajeev, a resident of Kushalnagar, has alleged that his wife, Sachita, and their nine-year-old son were taken to Keralam, where the child was subjected to circumcision and religious conversion without his consent. The allegations have drawn the attention of local residents and several Hindu organisations, which have demanded a thorough probe into the incident.
Police sources said Sachita had been working as a saleswoman at a shop near the Nisargadhama Tourist Centre in Kushalnagar. During the course of her employment, she reportedly came into contact with two individuals identified as Saleem and Jaleel. The complainant has alleged that the two men exerted influence over his wife and facilitated her travel to Keralam along with the minor child.
According to the complaint, about a month ago Sachita and her son travelled to Manjeri in Kerala’s Malappuram district, where they allegedly stayed for several weeks. During this period, the boy was reportedly subjected to circumcision and religious conversion. Rajeev has claimed that the process was carried out without his knowledge and that the child, being a minor, was incapable of taking such a decision independently.
The matter came to light after discussions about the incident began circulating in Kushalnagar. Concerned residents and members of Hindu organisations extended legal and social support to the family and approached authorities seeking immediate intervention.
Following the complaint, police-initiated inquiries and coordinated efforts that led to the child being brought back to Karnataka. The boy has reportedly been placed under care and counselling while authorities assess both his physical and psychological well-being.
The case has generated strong reactions among local residents, who have demanded strict action if the allegations are found to be true. Several organisations have termed the incident extremely serious because it involves a minor child and questions relating to parental consent, child welfare and religious freedom.
Police have arrested Saleem and Jaleel in connection with the case and are questioning them regarding their alleged role. Investigators are examining whether any laws relating to child rights, guardianship, religious conversion or criminal conspiracy have been violated.
The incident has also reignited political and social discussions surrounding allegations of organised love jihad network. While some groups have linked the case to broader concerns over conversion activities, legal experts have stressed that conclusions should be based on evidence gathered during the investigation rather than speculation.
Authorities are currently collecting documentary evidence, verifying travel records, examining communication between the accused persons and recording statements from witnesses. Police are also expected to seek information from institutions and individuals connected to the alleged events in Keralam.
Investigators are focusing particularly on the circumstances under which the minor underwent circumcision and whether all legal requirements and parental consent procedures were followed. Child welfare experts note that any significant medical or religious decision involving a minor must be examined carefully to ensure the rights and interests of the child are protected.
The Kushalnagar Police have registered a case and stated that a detailed investigation is underway. Hindu organisation leaders urged people to come forward to file complaints with police if they found any such forcible conversions of Hindu girls and women.
