migration

Muslims and Christians saw average annual population growth rates of about 3.9%, Sikhs 1.15%, and Hindus 1.60%.

It has been said by the local Hindus that the local Muslims are continuously harassing them through various tactics and even pressuring them to sell their houses to Muslims. Frustrated due to the perpetual harassment several Hindu families are reportedly migrating from the area.

Distressed migration which has been a pervasive issue across most districts of the state is more pronounced in the Western belt in districts like Balangir, Nuapada and Kalahandi among others.

Around 25 families, totalling 100 individuals, have reportedly crossed over from Bangladesh into West Bengal owing to poll violence there.

It is believed that the tribals converted without much effort due to the similarities they found in the biblical stories told to them by the missionaries.