Surat police arrested a government school principal on Friday for his alleged involvement in the forced religious conversion of a local woman. Ramji Chaudhary, principal of Pipalvada Primary School, faces charges after police investigations validated the victim’s accusations.
Surat (Rural) Superintendent of Police Rajesh Gadhiya confirmed the arrest. He stated Ramji Chaudhary’s son, Dr. Ankit Chaudhary, a pastor, is also implicated in the ongoing investigation. The woman reported meeting Dr. Ankit Chaudhary a few years ago.
Allegations of Abuse and Coercion
The victim detailed a two-year period of physical abuse by Dr. Ankit Chaudhary. She alleged he lured her with promises of marriage during this time. Police had previously registered a case against Dr. Ankit Chaudhary concerning these specific allegations of abuse.
During the investigation into Dr. Ankit Chaudhary in May , the woman presented new accusations. She alleged Ramji Chaudhary and other individuals coerced her into converting to Christianity. Police conducted further inquiry into these claims of forced conversion.
Superintendent Gadhiya stated police found the woman’s accusations of forced conversion to be valid. This finding led to the arrest of Principal Ramji Chaudhary.
Broader Investigation Underway
Police are extending their investigation beyond the immediate arrests. Ramji Chaudhary has an association with a charitable organization. This organization has been officially registered since 2014 .
Authorities are now examining if other individuals connected to this charitable organization have participated in similar religious conversion activities in the past. The investigation remains active as police gather more information regarding these alleged activities.