In Bodh Gaya, 200 back to Hinduism

Patna: Over 200 Christians of Atia village in Bodh Gaya were “purified” on Monday under pressure from the saffron brigade to participate in their ‘ghar wapsi’ (homecoming or reconversion) programme.

The move was initiated by local BJP MP Hari Manjhi. The Sangh Pariwar targeted the mahadalit villagers because they had embraced Christianity en-bloc; they were segregated under brahminical orders from the Hindu mainstream and lived in extreme poverty.

Mr Manjhi, however, disappeared from the scene and rushed to Delhi just before the ‘ghar wapsi’ programme was launched after the BJP withdrew itself from the entire issue.

Till a fortnight ago the BJP had been supporting the reconversion drive.