Maharashtra's new bill cracks down on forced religious conversions
Maharashtra has introduced the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026 to regulate religious conversions. The proposed law targets cases where individuals are forced, coerced, or lured into changing their faith. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stressed that the bill aims to protect victims rather than target any specific religion.
The bill requires anyone planning to convert to another religion to notify the district collector 60 days in advance. Relatives can object to the proposed conversion, and police will investigate any claims of illegal activity. Those found guilty of coercive conversions could face seven to ten years in prison, along with fines ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh.
Fadnavis clarified that the legislation was not directed against any community but sought to address issues like 'Love Jihad,' where girls are allegedly lured, eloped with, and later abandoned. He urged opposition parties to study the bill carefully before taking a stance. The accused will bear the burden of proof if they claim to have been falsely implicated. The chief minister also pointed out that similar anti-conversion laws already exist in other states, including Tamil Nadu, which is not governed by the BJP. The bill aims to create a legal framework for cases involving forced or deceptive religious conversions.
If passed, the law will impose strict penalties for illegal conversions while requiring prior notice for any change of faith. The government insists the measure is necessary to prevent exploitation in the name of religion. The final decision now rests with the state legislature.
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