The conversion of Sushil Sharma has sparked debate; police arrest him soon after he offers Friday congregational prayers
NEW DELHI — A young man from Baghpat in Uttar Pradesh converted to Islam after being denied permission to hold a Mata Jagran, a Hindu religious ritual. The incident has created tension in the area and raised serious questions about religious freedom and the role of the administration.
Sushil Sharma, a resident of Asara village in the Ramala police station area, had requested permission from local authorities to organise the ritual. However, his request was refused. Upset by this denial, he took the step of embracing Islam.
According to reports, Sharma made his conversion formal by submitting an affidavit. He then went to the local mosque where he performed the Friday congregational prayers.
Speaking to the worshippers in the mosque, he reportedly said: “I felt deeply hurt when the administration denied me permission. I believe in freedom of faith, so I chose Islam and offered my first prayers today.”
His move became widely discussed after he posted about it on social media, where he clearly wrote that he had converted out of sorrow and frustration with the authorities.
As soon as Sharma came out of the mosque, local police detained him and took him for questioning. Officials claim they are investigating the circumstances behind his decision and the impact it may have on public order.
A police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “We have detained him to understand the whole situation.”
Villagers have been left divided over the issue. Some have called it a personal choice, while others see it as a protest against perceived injustice.
Mohammad Arif, a local shopkeeper, said: “Every citizen has the right to choose his faith. The problem is that when a Hindu converts to Islam, the police treat it like a crime. This shows double standards.”
Another villager, who wished not to be named, remarked: “The administration refused him permission for his Jagran, and now they are questioning him for converting. Both decisions are unfair.”
The case highlights the sensitivity surrounding religious events and conversions in Uttar Pradesh. Many Muslims in the state feel that while Hindu religious activities often receive open support, Muslim practices and conversions to Islam are viewed with suspicion.
An elderly resident of Asara commented: “This is not just about one man. It is about whether citizens truly have freedom to practice or change their faith without harassment.”
The detention of Sharma has raised concerns that his decision is being criminalised, while his right to personal belief should have been respected.
As police continue to interrogate Sushil Sharma, the incident has left the village, and indeed much of Uttar Pradesh, in debate over whether religious freedom exists equally for all communities. The silence of higher authorities has further deepened the unease among Muslims, who see the episode as another reminder of unequal treatment.
