QR code on visiting card gives rise to allegations of ‘digital conversion’

BENGALURU: Bengaluru is witnessing a rise in complaints about forced conversions or proselytizing, with allegations that digital technology is being used to lure people.

There have been sufficient protests in the state regarding conversions in the past, but many are still continuing their covert operations. In a recent incident in Bengaluru, an attempt was made to convert people using visiting cards with printed a QR code.

Two days ago, two woman distributed visiting cards to pedestrians on the main road in Begur. The card claimed that scanning the QR code would provide solutions to problems such as unemployment, marriage and financial difficulties. However, when a pedestrian scanned the code, it led to information about the Bible.

When questioned, the woman distributing the cards fled the scene, leaving the pedestrian stunned. This incident has sparked outrage among Hindu organizations, who are demanding action against the accused. They are urging the government to take stringent measures to put an end to such forced conversion attempts. The organizations are also demanding that the government take immediate action against those involved in the incident.

Ramya Karthad, who received the visiting card from two unidentified women, said that she inquired about the two women out of curiosity. “They are fooling people by saying that if they scan the QR code, they will get solutions to their problems”, she said.

When Ramya scanned the QR code, it directed to Bible-related internet links. “This is nothing but digital conversion. Poor, unemployed youths are their easy target group. The conversion process has been happening for so long back in Begur. They also invited the people, who are suffering from problems, to meet them at their office”, she claimed.

She also said that it should be stopped, and the police informed and a complaint filed against this conversion scam.