Maharashtra's anti-conversion Bill raises concerns over personal liberty and implementation
The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026, passed by the State Legislature, aims to prohibit unlawful religious conversions through fraudulent means. It mandates a 60-day prior notice for conversion and a post-conversion declaration, with severe punishments including imprisonment up to 10 years and hefty fines for violations. The Bill allows relatives to file complaints and declares marriages solemnized solely for unlawful conversion as null and void. Civil society organizations and opposition leaders criticize the Bill as 'regressive,' infringing on personal liberty, enabling State interference in faith and marriage, and potentially targeting interfaith relationships, while the government defends it as necessary to address forcible conversions and maintain public order.
Key Points
- The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026, seeks to prevent unlawful religious conversions through fraudulent means.
- Key provisions include a mandatory 60-day prior notice for conversion, post-conversion declaration, and severe penalties for violations, including imprisonment and fines.
- The Bill allows relatives to file complaints and declares marriages for unlawful conversion null and void, with provisions for child custody and maintenance.
- Critics argue the Bill curtails personal liberty, enables State interference in faith and marriage, and may target interfaith relationships, while the government cites increasing cases of forcible conversions and public order concerns.
Exam Facts
- The Bill is named the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026.
- It mandates a 60-day prior notice for conversion.
- Punishments for violations include imprisonment of up to 10 years and a fine of up to ₹7 lakh.
- Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has defended the Bill.
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