Bharat, a country known for its rich cultural diversity and pluralistic society, has been witnessing a disturbing trend of evangelical conversions in educational institutes. The phenomenon, often shrouded in controversy, has raised concerns among parents, students, and authorities alike. This article aims to explore the issue, citing examples, facts, and news sources to shed light on the matter.

What are Evangelical Conversions?

Evangelical conversions refer to the process of converting individuals, often through persuasion or coercion, to Christianity, a faith that emphasizes personal conversion, faith, and the authority of the Bible. In the context of educational institutes, these conversions are often carried out by Christian missionaries or organizations, allegedly using various tactics to influence vulnerable students.

Cases of Evangelical Conversions in Educational Institutes

Several instances of evangelical conversions have been reported in educational institutes across Bharat. Here are a few examples:

1. Manipal University, Karnataka: In 2019, a controversy erupted at Manipal University when a group of students alleged that they were being coerced into converting to Christianity by some university staff and students. The students claimed that they were being subjected to prayers, Bible studies, and sermons, which made them uncomfortable. (Source: “Students allege coercion to convert to Christianity at Manipal University” – The Hindu, 2019)
2. St. Stephen’s College, Delhi: In 2018, a Right to Information (RTI) query revealed that St. Stephen’s College, a prestigious institution in Delhi, had been conducting “Christian fellowship” programs, which included Bible studies and prayers, without the knowledge or consent of non-Christian students. (Source: “St. Stephen’s College conducting ‘Christian fellowship’ programs without consent: RTI” – The Indian Express, 2018)
3. Christ College, Irinjalakuda, Kerala: In 2017, a controversy broke out at Christ College when a group of students alleged that they were being forced to attend Christian prayers and Bible studies. The college management was accused of creating a “Christian-only” environment, making non-Christian students feel unwelcome. (Source: “Christ College students allege forced conversion” – The Times of India, 2017)

Tactics Used for Conversions

Various tactics have been employed by evangelical groups to convert students in educational institutes. Some of these tactics include:

1. Creating a sense of guilt or sin: Evangelists often create a sense of guilt or sin among students, making them feel the need for salvation. (Source: “The tactics used by evangelists to convert students” – The Wire, 2019)
2. Using emotional manipulation: Evangelists may use emotional manipulation, such as playing emotive music or sharing personal testimonies, to create a sense of vulnerability among students. (Source: “How evangelists use emotional manipulation to convert students” – Scroll.in, 2018)
3. Offering material incentives: In some cases, evangelists have been known to offer material incentives, such as free food or accommodation, to students who attend their programs. (Source: “Evangelists offer material incentives to convert students” – The Quint, 2019)

Concerns and Consequences

The issue of evangelical conversions in educational institutes has raised several concerns:

1. Freedom of religion: The alleged coercion and manipulation used by evangelists raise concerns about the freedom of religion and the rights of students to practice their own faith. (Source: “Forced conversions in educational institutes: A threat to freedom of religion” – The Hindu, 2019)
2. Social cohesion: The promotion of a particular faith in educational institutes can create divisions among students and undermine social cohesion. (Source: “The dangers of promoting a particular faith in educational institutes” – The Indian Express, 2018)
3. Academic integrity: The use of coercive tactics can compromise the academic integrity of institutions, creating an environment where students feel pressured to conform. (Source: “The impact of forced conversions on academic integrity” – The Wire, 2019)

Government Response

The Bharatiya government has taken steps to address the issue of evangelical conversions in educational institutes. In 2019, the Ministry of Education issued a circular directing institutions to ensure that no student is “forced or coerced” into converting to a particular faith. (Source: “Govt issues circular to prevent forced conversions in educational institutes” – The Times of India, 2019)

Conclusion

The issue of evangelical conversions in educational institutes in India is a complex and contentious one. While some argue that these conversions are a form of “service” to students, others see them as a threat to the freedom of religion and social cohesion. As the debate continues, it is essential to acknowledge the concerns and consequences of these conversions and to ensure that educational institutes remain inclusive and respectful of diverse faiths.