ROURKELA: Seventy three tribals, including 12 women and 30 children, who reportedly embraced Christianity recently, have been reconverted to Hinduism at a religious function organised at a local temple here, official sources said on Tuesday.

The tribals, belonging to 26 different families living in Lahunipada, Birida, Jadakud, Gurundia and Panposh areas, attended the yagna held at the Sitaram temple here on Sunday, the sources said.

The superintendent of police, Sanjib Panda, said the tribals had fulfilled all the requirements of the Orissa Freedom of Religion Act (OFRA) and had informed the district authorities six months ago about their intention to become Hindus.

Subash Chouhan, state convener of the Hindu Jagran Sammukhya and local VHP leaders were present at the function.