Nagpur police have arrested an NGO owner following allegations that women employees were pressured into religious conversion and compelled to follow specific religious practices.
According to the complaint, Riyas Qazi, who runs the charities “Bigger Foundation” and “Bade Hum Bataye Hum” in Nagpur district, allegedly forced women staff to adopt Islamic dress codes and observe particular rituals.
Based on statements from the women employees, police registered a case and took Qazi into custody on Sunday. Officials said the investigation is being pursued on a priority basis.
Police added that they are assessing how many women may have been subjected to coercion. Given the nature of the case, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has also joined the investigation.
Investigators are also examining the source of funds for the NGOs and whether any larger network is involved, police said.
