The Punjab Bachao Morcha organised a ‘Dharama Raksha Rally’ in Jalandhar to protest what it described as illegal religious conversions taking place across the state through fraud, inducement and coercion.
The rally drew hundreds of participants from various Sikh, Hindu and Christian organisations who demanded urgent government intervention.
Protesters submitted a memorandum to police officials, highlighting alleged violations and urging strict action against those involved in what they termed “unlawful conversion practices.”
Senior police officers present at the spot assured the gathering that action would be taken against individuals or groups promoting so-called magic or miraculous healing to influence people to change their faith.
Tejasvi Minhas, president of Punjab Bachao Morcha, accused “self-styled pastors” of misleading vulnerable people by claiming to perform healing miracles, saying such acts violate the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954.
He added that none of the individuals making medical claims possess recognised medical qualifications or registration with the National Medical Commission or the Punjab Medical Council.
The rally saw participation from several prominent figures, including Baba Kulwinder Singh 96 Crori Chaunte Wale, Baba Sukhjit Singh Moga of Punjab Sanjha Manch, Baba Manpreet Singh Faridkoti, Baba Kuljit Singh of Mukhi Misl Shaheedan Tarna Dal Doaba, Bhagat Singh Doabi and Maninder Mani from Hindu Tiger Sangathan, Bathinda.
Members of the Morcha said their campaign would continue until what they called the “business in the name of religion” is completely stopped in Punjab.