CHRISTIAN ACTIVIST ACCUSED OF CONVERTING HINDU SEX WORKERS

Anson Thomas, a Christian activist who has rescued scores of minors working as prostitutes in Mumbai, India, was recently accused of "unlawfully converting" Hindu commercial sex workers. Owners of Jamuna Mansion, one of the largest brothels in Mumbai, made the accusations.

Thomas has so far rescued 84 girls of minor age - 18 or younger - by organizing raids on the brothels.

Brothel owners claim Thomas has misused his status as a social activist to forcibly convert Hindu sex workers. On 30 Dec., police sent a notice to Thomas warning him to refrain from giving Hindu prostitutes Bibles and delivering sermons.

"Mr. Thomas is indulging in unlawful acts which could lead to religious and social trouble," said Nawal Najaj, a deputy commissioner of police in Mumbai.

Thomas, however, denies the allegations, saying this is simply a ploy by brothel owners to keep him away from their businesses. "I suspect a strong connection exists between local politicians and brothel-keepers," Thomas told Compass. "These politicians are misusing their influence to protect the sex trade.

"They get their share of money from the brothel. And the police also get a share for not taking any action against the illegal trade."

+ Vishal Arora, Compass Digest, PO Box 27250, Santa Ana, CA 92799

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