'Trap Hindu Women, Blackmail And Convert': Inside Kota's Religious Conversion Row

Last Updated:June 25, 2026, 09:42 IST

Kota news: Allegations that Hindu women were targeted online for religious conversion has triggered a major controversy. Here's what the FIR alleges and what police say

A case registered in Rajasthan’s Kota over an alleged WhatsApp and Telegram network has sparked a political and social controversy, with Bajrang Dal alleging that Hindu women and girls were being lured into relationships, blackmailed and pressured to convert. Police, however, say several of the claims circulating publicly have not been established during the investigation so far.

The FIR was registered at Vigyan Nagar police station on June 15 based on a complaint filed by Bajrang Dal activist Yogesh Renwal. The accused, identified as Manish Sharma, has been arrested. According to the complaint, he allegedly used the name ‘Moin Khan’ on social media platforms.

What Does The Complaint Allege?

According to the complaint filed by Renwal, the accused was allegedly part of online groups where conversations revolved around trapping Hindu women through romantic relationships, recording objectionable videos and using them for blackmail. The complaint further alleges that women were pressured to convert their religion after being exploited.

The complainant has also alleged that minors were among those targeted and that religious sentiments were deliberately hurt through objectionable content. Police are examining digital evidence, including chats, videos and other material recovered from the accused’s electronic devices.

Pakistan Link And Conversion Claims

The complainant has further alleged that the accused had been in contact with individuals or groups in Pakistan through platforms such as Telegram, Snapchat and Discord. Bajrang Dal has claimed some audio clips suggest instructions were being received from across the border and has sought a probe by central agencies.

The organisation has also alleged that the accused adopted the name Moin Khan after converting his religion and was operating multiple social media groups linked to these activities.

Police Say Investigation Has Not Confirmed Several Claims

Kota City Additional Superintendent of Police Subhash Mishra said the investigation has so far not found evidence to support allegations of religious conversion.

“Any kind of religious conversion has not come to light. No facts related to the insult of Hindu deities have emerged in the investigation so far," an India Today report quoted Mishra as saying.

He said investigators found that the accused had joined Telegram groups and was accessing obscene and pornographic content, following which relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act were invoked.

The report also quoted investigating officer Mangilal as saying that the accused had allegedly downloaded videos and photographs from Telegram groups and stored them on his mobile phone. He added that investigators have not established claims that the accused underwent circumcision.

Investigation Continues

Police have booked the accused under Sections 196(1)(a), 196(1)(b), 299 and 352 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with Sections 66, 67 and 67A of the Information Technology Act.

Officials say the investigation is focused on examining mobile phone data, social media activity and other digital evidence. Police have also indicated that further arrests are possible if the probe identifies the involvement of additional suspects.

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