Former CM alleges forced religious conversion, calls for strict action
Shimla, June 15, 2025:
Leader of Opposition and former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has accused the police and administration of siding with the accused in the Paonta Sahib case, while harassing the victim’s family.
“What’s happening in Paonta is unfortunate. The police are acting with clear bias — protecting the accused and targeting the victim’s family,” Thakur said in a strongly worded statement from Shimla.
“This kind of injustice will not be tolerated in Devbhoomi (land of gods),” he added.
Thakur further alleged that the missing girl was forcibly converted to another religion, which, he said, is illegal under the Himachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion (Amendment) Act, 2022.
“Our government made this law stricter with provisions of up to 10 years’ imprisonment for forced conversions.
Yet no action is being taken. Why? Because the police are dancing to the tune of political bosses,” he said.
He accused the police of trying to suppress their own failure by victimizing the girl’s family.
“This is nothing short of a conspiracy. The BJP will not remain silent. We will fight — both on the streets and in the Assembly — to ensure justice,” Thakur warned.
He urged the government and administration to act fairly, ensure justice to the victim, and maintain peace in the region.
