Manik Saha Calls for Movement Against Forced Conversions

• By Thetripurapost Desk, Agartala
• Dec 26, 2025
• 581

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on December 25 stressed the need for a strong social movement against forced religious conversion, terming it a crime. He was speaking to reporters at a Gurdwara in Chandmari on the outskirts of Agartala while observing Veer Bal Diwas.

Recalling the supreme sacrifice of the Sahibzade—the younger sons of Sikh Guru Gobind Singh—the Chief Minister said their martyrdom continues to inspire generations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced in 2022 that December 26 would be observed as Veer Bal Diwas to commemorate the sacrifice of Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh.

Referring to the historical atrocities committed against the two Sahibzade, aged nine and six respectively, Saha described the incident as a reflection of the extreme inhumanity of Mughal ruler Aurangzeb. “The Sahibzade were killed only because they refused to abandon their faith. Their sacrifice stands as a powerful symbol of courage and resistance against oppression,” he said.

Highlighting the relevance of Veer Bal Diwas, the Chief Minister said the observance teaches people to raise their voices against forced religious conversion. “Religion is a personal choice, and any conversion through force or inducement is a crime,” he said, also referring to the persecution faced by Kashmiri Pandits.

Expressing concern over demographic changes, Saha pointed to the sharp decline in the Hindu population in Pakistan over the years. “The situation in East and West Pakistan after independence was different, but today the Hindu population has been alarmingly reduced,” he said.

Calling for collective action, the Chief Minister urged people to raise their voices against forced religious conversion not only within the country but also at international platforms.