Outside Indore Press Club, NGO members assaulted during press conference to clear the air on conversion claims

Indore witnessed a disturbing incident on Wednesday when right-wing activists attacked members of a non-governmental organization (NGO) outside the Indore Press Club. The group, led by Sourav Banerjee, had arranged a press conference to counter allegations of religious conversions in Dewas district. Their attempt to clarify matters quickly turned violent.

The Incident

Banerjee and his team of eight men and two women arrived at the press club to present their side of the story. The NGO had recently faced accusations of converting vulnerable communities under the guise of social work. Determined to defend their work, they called the press to share evidence and deny the claims.

Before the conference began, right-wing activists, including Bajrang Dal members, stormed the venue. They shouted slogans and physically pushed the group out. Eyewitnesses reported that several NGO members were slapped and kicked, while some had their faces blackened. Even the two women were assaulted during the chaos.

Police personnel rushed to the scene and intervened. They escorted the NGO workers to safety. “We came only to clarify false allegations, but they didn’t allow us to speak,” Banerjee said. “We challenge anyone to show proof of a single conversion. Our work focuses solely on education, healthcare, and employment.”

Right-Wing Allegations

Bajrang Dal activists claimed the NGO had been operating in Dewas forests, allegedly luring tribal families to change their faith through inducements. Avinash Kaushal, Bajrang Dal’s local coordinator, said, “We received complaints from villagers. These people pretend to do social work but are targeting poor communities for conversions.”

Despite their claims, the activists have not presented any concrete evidence. Several observers criticized the violence, saying it violated democratic rights. “Everyone deserves the chance to present their side without fear of attacks,” a local journalist remarked.

Police Response

Police confirmed they are investigating both the attack and the allegations of conversion. “We have recorded statements and are verifying all claims,” a senior officer stated. “No formal complaint has been filed yet, but we will take action if any wrongdoing is found.”

After the scuffle, officers escorted the NGO members to Dewas for further questioning. Banerjee insisted that the Howl Group operates legally and with transparency. “We focus on empowering people through skill development and social initiatives. These accusations are politically motivated,” he said.

NGO’s Stand

According to Banerjee, the Howl Group organizes educational programs, medical camps, and legal aid services. They also provide employment opportunities for marginalized groups. “Our mission is to uplift communities, not divide them,” Banerjee said. “It’s sad that our work is being misinterpreted.”

He demanded an official inquiry into the attack at the press club. “We were humiliated and assaulted while exercising our right to respond. Such violence cannot be accepted.”

Public and Political Reactions

The assault has triggered a debate in Madhya Pradesh over rising tensions linked to religious conversions. The state enforces strict anti-conversion laws, but many civil rights groups have criticized vigilante violence. “The law, not mobs, should handle such issues,” said a human rights activist in Indore.

Social media also reacted strongly. Some users supported the NGO’s right to defend itself, while others echoed the activists’ concerns and demanded more scrutiny of NGOs in tribal areas.

Broader Context

Religious conversions have long been a sensitive issue in Madhya Pradesh, particularly in tribal regions. Many NGOs providing welfare services face accusations of conversions without clear evidence. Experts believe the issue is linked to the socio-economic struggles of these communities. “When NGOs provide basic services, it can be misread as a strategy to influence beliefs,” a local analyst explained.

What Lies Ahead

The police are reviewing CCTV footage from the press club and recording statements from witnesses. They have assured action against anyone found guilty of violence. If the NGO files a complaint, the attackers could face serious charges.

Banerjee and his team remain determined to continue their work. “We will cooperate with any inquiry. We have nothing to hide,” he said. “But we demand protection and the right to speak freely.”

The Indore Press Club has condemned the attack. Officials stated that the venue is meant for open dialogue, not hostility. The incident has once again raised concerns about freedom of speech and growing intolerance in public discussions.