Convent School in Sagar Faces Protests over Conversion Allegations

Khurai, Madhya Pradesh, August 15, 2026: A Catholic school in Khurai under Sagar diocese witnessed protests by Hindu organisations this week following allegations of religious conversion on its premises, prompting demands for a formal inquiry into the institution's activities, finances and sources of funding.

The allegations against Holy Family Convent School, which comes under the Sagar Syro-Malabar Diocese, have not been established.

The protests began after Hindu groups alleged that religious conversion activities were taking place at the school. Members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) gathered outside the institution and later submitted a memorandum seeking an investigation.

The protesters also questioned religious activities and material displayed on the school premises. They alleged that children from other states were being brought to the school and claimed that the institution was being used for religious activities.

Police personnel were deployed as the demonstrations continued. Protesters later met the school management and sought clarification on the allegations. According to reports, the management said that a graduation ceremony had been scheduled at the school but was subsequently cancelled.

The situation escalated on Wednesday when members of the Bajrang Dal and other Hindu organisations staged another demonstration. The protesters marched from the city's fort gate towards the tehsil office, raising slogans and demanding an inquiry.

After police officials intervened to defuse the situation, the protesters staged a brief sit-in outside the tehsil office. They sought to submit a memorandum addressed to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), but the office did not accept it. Tehsildar Ritu Rai later received the memorandum.

The memorandum called for an investigation based on CCTV footage from the school, statements from people associated with the matter, and an examination of the institution's accounts and sources of funding. It also sought an inquiry into the conversion allegations and legal action against anyone found responsible.

The protesters further demanded an administrative-level inquiry into private schools in Khurai and action against any irregularities detected.

For the school and the Catholic community, the allegations remain claims that require verification through due process. Any inquiry should be based on evidence, including documentary records, CCTV footage and witness statements, rather than assumptions arising from the religious identity of the institution or those attending its programmes.

The episode also highlights the need for responsible handling of allegations involving religious institutions. While legitimate concerns or complaints should be investigated by the competent authorities, students, families, staff and religious personnel are entitled to protection from intimidation and unsubstantiated accusations while the facts are being established.

A transparent and impartial inquiry would help determine whether any law has been violated and, equally, provide an opportunity for the institution to respond to allegations that have so far not been established.

By Catholic Connect Reporter