NGO operator arrested in Nagpur over conversion allegations

Police in Nagpur arrested Riyaz Kazi of Universal Multipurpose Society over alleged religious conversion and misconduct complaints involving children, with authorities investigating possible wider networks and funding behind the reported activities

New Delhi: A case related to alleged religious conversion has surfaced once again in Nagpur, Maharashtra, where police have arrested an NGO operator following complaints from victims.

According to police, the accused, identified as Riyaz Kazi, who runs an NGO named Universal Multipurpose Society (UMS), was taken into custody from the Mankapur police station area. He has been accused of allegedly targeting underprivileged children under the pretext of providing education and introducing them to Islamic teachings. Some girls have also levelled allegations of inappropriate behaviour against him.

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Officials said the action was initiated after multiple complaints were received from victims. Based on these complaints, police registered a case and moved swiftly to detain the accused. The matter is currently under detailed investigation to ascertain the full extent of the activities and whether more individuals were involved.

Police sources indicated that the organisation was operating in local areas, and authorities are now examining its functioning, outreach, and funding patterns to determine if there was any organised effort behind the alleged acts.

Speaking on the development, Police Inspector Haresh Kalsekar of Mankapur Police Station said, “We received complaints from some victims, based on which the accused has been arrested. The investigation is ongoing, and further action will be taken considering all aspects of the case.”

He added that the police are taking the allegations seriously and are verifying all claims, including those related to misconduct and religious influence.

Authorities have also stated that if evidence emerges pointing to the involvement of other individuals or a larger network, strict action will be taken against all those found responsible.

The case has once again brought attention to concerns around alleged forced or induced religious conversions, with officials emphasising that the investigation will proceed in accordance with the law and due process.