Gujarat HC Refuses to Quash FIR Against ASHA Supervisor in Alleged Religious Conversion Case
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
The Gujarat High Court has refused to quash an FIR registered against an ASHA supervisor accused of allegedly pressuring Hindu health workers to embrace Christianity, holding that the allegations disclose a cognisable offence under the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act, 2003.
Justice Moksha K. Thakker dismissed the quashing petition filed by Namrata Gordhanbhai Mekwan, observing that a prima facie case is made out under the provisions of the Act and that no relief could be granted at this stage.
Allegations by ASHA Workers
According to the case, Khambhat Rural Police registered an FIR against Mekwan following a complaint filed by an ASHA worker.
The complainant alleged that the supervisor made her and four other Hindu ASHA workers read the Bible, showed videos promoting Christianity, criticised idol worship and attempted to influence them to adopt the Christian faith.
The complaint further alleged that when they refused to comply, the supervisor threatened to reduce their salaries.
Religious Gathering Alleged
The FIR also claims that the workers were taken to a religious gathering in Vadodara on the pretext of attending an official departmental meeting.
According to the complaint, the alleged incidents took place between 2022 and 2024, while the FIR was registered in November 2025.
Chargesheet Already Filed
Police have completed their investigation and filed a chargesheet before the trial court.
Refusing to interfere with the proceedings, the High Court held that the allegations require adjudication through the regular criminal justice process.
