The governor of Uttar Pradesh, a state in northern India, has ordered all universities and higher education colleges in the state to establish "religious conversion prevention cells," known in Hindi as "dharmantaran roktham cells." The directive, issued in June 2026, covers universities, medical and dental colleges, and other higher education institutions throughout the state. The cells are to include counseling mechanisms, monitoring systems, reporting protocols, student welfare measures and preventive safeguards against what the government calls "illegal religious conversions."
The initiative is based on the draconian Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, making university campuses the focal point of efforts to prevent conversions. Institutions have been instructed to activate anti-radicalization units, step up physical surveillance in areas such as student dormitories, and conduct awareness campaigns about the legal framework governing conversions. Universities must also investigate complaints, closely monitor "suspicious activities" and submit regular compliance reports to their governing universities.
Christian leaders are alarmed at the possibility that these cells could be used to harass Christian students involved in prayer groups and campus meetings supported by parachurch organizations. Rights advocates warn that the measure could create an atmosphere of suspicion and surveillance that would disproportionately affect religious minorities. The opposition Samajwadi Party (SP) strongly criticized the directive, arguing that it distorts the educational mission of institutions and contributes to communal polarization in the state.
Pray for Christian students and youth groups at universities in Uttar Pradesh who may be targeted by these new surveillance cells. Ask the Lord to give believers wisdom and courage to continue sharing the gospel on campuses, and to protect those who gather to pray and study the Bible. Intercede for the authorities to recognize the fundamental right to religious freedom, and for international human rights bodies to stand against the systemic persecution of Christians in India.
