The Hardoi police have arrested one Kamlesh Kumar, 45, under the provisions of the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act.

Police said Kamlesh had organised a ceremony at his house in Sandila on December 31 evening in the garb of a New Year’s Eve party where he tried to forcefully convert the ‘guests’ to Christianity.

Last week, 23 people were arrested in Sitapur for forcefully converting people to Christianity.

The Inspector in charge of Sandila police station, Dharmendra Giri, said that Kamlesh, who runs a grocery store, had organised a party at his house in Tikar Mazra which was attended by over 40 people.

“One of the guests, Bablu Dayal, told the police that Kamlesh first tried to convince everyone that Hindu Dharma was no good and later forced gullible locals to convert to Christianity,” Giri said.

Dayal also told the police that Kamlesh also assured them of regular financial help apart from jobs and employment.

“We will take him on remand and will grill him,” Giri said.

Sources said the accused knew some pastors in Sitapur and frequently visited them.

(This article has been published via a syndicated feed with a modified headline)