VHP holds ‘ghar wapsi’ again in Alappuzha, say reports

Alappuzha: Amidst raging controversy over conversion in the state, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Wednesday claimed converting 11 more persons from three families to Hinduism in Kayamkulam in the district.

The outfit had earlier claimed converting a batch of 30 persons belonging to eight families of Scheduled Caste Christians to Hinduism under a campaign called ‘ghar wapsi.’ However, it was later revealed the number of converted people was nine.

The latest reports come days after Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala ordered an investigation into the matter. Additional Director General of Police A. Hemachandran has been asked to probe the matter and submit a report.

The ritual was first held at a local temple at Kanichanallor. VHP leader Prathap G Padikkal, who arranged the functon, said that the families "expressed their desire to come back to Hinduism" and VHP "only facilitated the return".

He said their ancestors had converted to Christianity some decades ago. Another 150 families in the district have expressed their wish to embrace Hindusiam and VHP would arrange their 'home coming' also, he said.