Secret Conversions? 40% of India’s Andhra Hindus Embrace Christianity Off-Record
Andhra Pradesh — A recent claim that an estimated 40% of Hindus in India’s Andhra Pradesh state have embraced Christianity—while many still retain their Hindu identity in official records—has sparked fresh debate over the state’s demographic composition and its socio-political ramifications.
During an interview, a local individual made a striking assertion: “I don’t want to say the exact numbers. Come and see for yourself. The current ratio is 60-40”.
If true, this would represent a significant shift in religious demographics within the state, where Hindus have historically formed the majority.
Despite such claims, official census records do not reflect this drastic change, primarily because many converts reportedly do not update their religious identity on official documents such as Aadhaar cards and caste certificates.
This practice, according to critics, allows individuals to continue benefiting from government schemes designated for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs), which are intended for socio-economically disadvantaged Hindu communities.
The potential misuse of caste-based reservations and welfare schemes has raised concerns among policymakers and community leaders. “After converting, they do not update their Aadhaar card or other official documents. As a result, they continue to receive all the benefits reserved for lower-caste Hindu communities”, the source added.
The state of Andhra Pradesh has historically been a hotspot for religious conversions, with active missionary movements and charitable institutions playing a crucial role in social outreach. While many converts cite spiritual reasons and improved social status as their motivation for conversion, others claim access to missionary-run education and healthcare facilities as a driving factor.
Authorities have not officially confirmed the claimed figures, and religious conversions remain a sensitive topic in India’s socio-political landscape. However, some Hindu organizations and political groups have demanded stricter enforcement of anti-conversion laws and more transparency in welfare schemes.
With the next national census approaching, many believe that an accurate count of religious demographics could clarify the situation. Analysts suggest that if such large-scale conversions have indeed occurred, there may be a need for policy adjustments regarding reservations and welfare benefits.
This is a developing story. Further official data and reports may provide more clarity on the matter.
