Leh Police bust alleged religious conversion network, 8 held; probe expands across Ladakh

Leh: In a significant development with potential implications for social harmony and security in the Union Territory, Leh Police on Wednesday apprehended eight individuals allegedly linked to an organized religious conversion network operating across different parts of Ladakh and launched a comprehensive investigation into the group’s activities, including suspected financial transactions and possible foreign funding links.

According to an official statement issued by Ladakh Police, the action was initiated following credible inputs regarding alleged proselytization activities in multiple regions of the Union Territory. Acting on the information, police detained eight suspects believed to be involved in organized conversion-related operations targeting local communities.

An FIR (No. 126/2026) has been registered at Police Station Leh under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and investigations are currently underway to determine the full scope and extent of the alleged conversion network’s activities in Ladakh.

Preliminary findings indicate that the accused individuals were allegedly engaged in recruiting local youth for conversion-related activities in the remote regions of Zanskar, Changthang, and Aryan Valley. Investigators are examining the group’s outreach network and exploring possible links to similar activities in other parts of Ladakh.

The group had reportedly rented a residential premises in Skampari, Leh, where offices were allegedly established for the translation, preparation, and dissemination of religious literature. The premises are also suspected to have been used as a centre for activities connected to religious conversions.

During the operation, law enforcement agencies seized several laptops, digital devices, and other materials considered relevant to the ongoing investigation. Officials believe the recovered electronic equipment may provide crucial evidence regarding the nature, operational structure, and scale of the alleged organized conversion network.

The Ladakh Police investigation has now expanded to examine possible financial transactions linked to the group, including suspected foreign funding channels and other monetary connections, if any. Authorities are scrutinizing documents, digital records, and electronic evidence to determine whether external support or coordinated networks were involved.

A detailed inquiry is being conducted to ascertain the group’s presence and activities across various parts of Ladakh. Officials stated that any further legal action will be taken strictly on the basis of evidence emerging during the course of the investigation.

Meanwhile, Ladakh Police has appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and refrain from circulating unverified information, rumours, or speculative content that could hamper the investigation or disturb public order.

The case is being viewed as one of the most significant investigations into alleged organized conversion-related activities in Ladakh in recent years. Authorities are expected to intensify scrutiny of the network’s operations, financial links, and possible wider connections in the coming days. Further investigation is in progress.