Across India’s villages, ordinary men and women are taking extraordinary risks to protect their communities from illegal conversions. Yet, their courage often goes unnoticed, leaving them vulnerable to threats and isolation.
To change this, Rashtra Jyoti launched the Samvidhan Rakshak Samman – a campaign to honour and empower these grassroots defenders, and build institutional support and nationwide resistance against forced conversions.
The campaign launched from Bihar, with award events organised in multiple districts including Saran, Buxar, and West Champaran.
More than 20 local leaders who dismantled conversion rackets in their areas were acknowledged and celebrated.
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT
Illegal conversion mafias are expanding in Dalit and tribal belts under the cover of miracle-healing and charity. Local resistance is the first and most crucial line of defence, yet resisters are often left isolated and vulnerable.
By recognising their courage, we elevated them into community heroes, making resistance both aspirational and dignified.
IMPACT ACHIEVED
- Boosted morale of villagers to stand united against predatory proselytism.
- Sent a powerful message that defenders of Dharma will not be left alone – Rashtra Jyoti stands with them.
- Brought massive media focus to the conversion crisis.
- Spread awareness that converts lose Scheduled Caste status and constitutional benefits, valid only for Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists.
- Consolidated alliances with local Hindu organisations, expanding ground reach.
VISION AHEAD
Rashtra Jyoti aims to expand the Samman campaign to more states and districts across India where local resistance is growing. Our goal is to build a nationwide network of honoured grassroots leaders – a living shield of communities, forming the backbone of India’s resistance against illegal conversions.
See visuals of the events held thus far in various districts of Bihar:
