A serious issue has erupted in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, after several Hindu women employees of St Aloysius School have complained against the school authorities of forcing them to convert to Christianity. The women stated they were threatened with losing their jobs if they refused to change their religion. The matter has created tension in the area, and a Hindu organisation has now demanded strict action from the police.
Complaint reaches police
The Hindu women who lost their jobs approached the police and submitted a written complaint against Father Somi Jacob and some other senior teachers of the institution. According to them, they were called to a church meeting two days ago, where pressure was put on them to accept Christianity. When they refused, they were removed from their jobs.
The complainants said the management clearly told them that continuing their employment at the school would only be possible if they converted and regularly attended church prayers.
Woman employee shares her experience
One of the complainants, Deepa Patel, said she had worked at the school as a sanitation worker for nearly one and a half years. She said that she was insulted, beaten, and later removed from work. Deepa said she even informed the priest about the treatment she faced, but no help was given to her.
She further said that she was told to come to the church and accept Christianity. Deepa added that she is a widow and has two young children to care for, and losing her job has left her in serious financial trouble.
Hindu organisation comes out in support
After the matter became public, members of Hindu Dharma Sena reached the office of the Superintendent of Police and submitted a memorandum demanding immediate action.
Members of the organisation said missionary schools were targeting poor and working women by taking advantage of their weak financial condition. They stated that several teachers and women staff members had been asked either to convert to Christianity or leave their jobs.
Neeraj Rajput, associated with the organisation, said that around five to six Hindu women employees were facing pressure to attend church and adopt Christianity. According to him, some of these women had been working at the school for many years, yet they were still dismissed despite submitting formal resignation letters.
He also warned that if no action was taken against the school principal and management, the organisation would launch a strong protest.
Police begin investigation
Additional Superintendent of Police Suryakant Sharma confirmed that complaints had been received from Deepa Patel, Aman Agarwal, and others connected to the school.
He said the complainants stated they were asked to convert and were removed from their jobs after refusing. The police officer added that an impartial investigation has been started, and legal action will be taken if the allegations are found to be true.
