Christian Missionary Accused of Converting 50 Bhil Community Members in Kota by Offering Money, Travel, and Housing
News Mania Desk / Piyal Chatterjee / 27th April 2025
In Rajasthan’s Kota district, a Christian missionary named Joy Matthew has been accused of converting around 50 men, women, and children from the Bhil community in Motipura village. Allegations suggest that Matthew encouraged villagers to throw Hindu idols into drains and adopt Christianity. Police have filed a case against him for hurting religious sentiments, issuing threats, and offering inducements for religious conversion.
Reports claim Matthew lured economically vulnerable Bhil community members with promises of foreign trips, financial aid, and newly built houses. The incident came to light after two Bhil individuals alerted the police. On the night of April 21st, Bajrang Dal activists disrupted a Christian prayer meeting organized by Matthew.
Yogesh Renwal, the state coordinator for Bajrang Dal, stated, “We received reports about Joy Matthew converting Hindus with the help of some foreigners. Upon reaching the spot, we found him, along with his wife and three children, holding a gathering of 50 Bhil community members and making derogatory remarks about Hindu deities.”
Villagers confirmed that Matthew, a local resident who owns a large property with a rest house, regularly provides food supplies, money, and housing to people. He allegedly instructed villagers to dispose of images of Hindu gods and goddesses into drains.
Renwal also mentioned that Matthew conducted Christian prayer sessions and, after conversions, urged people to start wearing crosses. This led to a confrontation with Hindu activists, causing the event to break down in chaos.
Police revealed that among the foreigners present were Matthew’s daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren, who had traveled from the United States on tourist visas. Authorities have detained Matthew and his son-in-law, Collin, who now faces charges under the Foreigners Act. Meanwhile, additional police personnel have been deployed in Motipura village to prevent further unrest.
