What ails Kandhamal?

He also contends that naxalite activities added another dimension to the complicated situation in Kandhamal. Christian leaders say that forcing anyone to change their religion is against Christianity, while Hindu groups claim 8216;inducement, allurement and coercion8217;, have been used to convert a large number of people in the state.

Emphasising that Christians did not indulge in such practice, the Vicar General in the Bishop House here Joseph Kalathil sought to know of an instance of forcible conversion in the state.

A prominent church leader, Rev Pradip Das, also does not agree that forcible conversions are taking place.

8220;I would describe conversion as a transformation of a person. This can only be possible when a person8217;s heart is changed and it can be only done by god.8221;

State President of the Hindu Jagaran Samukhya HJS Ashok Sahu does not agree.

8220;The census figures of Kandhamal confirm rampant and unlawful conversion in the district,8221; Sahu, a retired IPS officer says.