November 25, 2024
THIMPHU – Residents of Yangphelthang in Norbugang gewog, Samtse, have voiced concerns over the distribution of missionary pamphlets in their community, prompting calls for a government investigation.
On October 10, three local residents lodged formal complaints with the gewog administration, accusing a 52-year-old woman of distributing the religious pamphlets at their doorsteps.
One resident, who found a pamphlet on her gate, reported the incident to the local Tshogpa. “Religion is a personal choice, but we should not influence others to convert,” she said.
Several neighbours also confirmed that similar notes were left on their gates that same day.
Another resident recalled seeing the missionary hastily leaving after placing a pamphlet on his gate on October 7. “While we respect her faith, her actions suggest an intent to convert others. This situation needs to be addressed to preserve peace in our community,” he stated in his complaint.
The gewog has forwarded the case to the Samtse dzongkhag Cultural Office. This is the first such complaint received by the Dzongkhag administration, according to the Cultural Office.
The case is currently with the Norbugang Police Station.
“We have written to the Officer-in-Command to investigate the case, since it is criminal in nature. A copy was also sent to the Department of Culture under the Ministry of Home Affairs,” said an official.
The community is concerned that the pamphlets could lead to religious conversions, disrupt local traditions, and create tensions between faith groups. “As the religion is not officially registered in the country, there is a growing concern in the community,” said a local government leader.
While Article 7, Section 4 of the Constitution of Bhutan grants the right to freedom of religion, it prohibits conversion to another faith through coercion or inducement.
The missionary, a native of Tsirang who has lived in Yangphelthang for over 20 years, acknowledged distributing the pamphlets but denied any intent to force conversions.
“My goal was never to encourage conversion but to share the benefits of my religion,” she said, adding that her family, including her husband, was unaware of her actions.
The residents also alleged that unauthorised religious gatherings are held in Maedgang (Gairi Goan).
Of the 96 households in Yangphelthang, the majority of them follow Hinduism followed by Buddhism. Six households reportedly practice Christianity while one household practices Islam.