Maharashtra anti-conversion law challenged in Bombay High Court

An Islamic scholar, Maulana Halimullah Farooque Ahmed Khan, has filed a writ petition in the Bombay High Court challenging the constitutional validity of the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026.

The petition argues that the legislation violates fundamental rights, including the rights to equality, free speech, privacy, dignity, and religious freedom. Specific provisions under scrutiny include Section 2(a), which defines “allurement” using broad terms such as “better lifestyle” and “divine healing.” The petitioner contends these definitions are vague and could criminalize legitimate religious teaching, charitable work, and humanitarian activities.

Other challenged sections include Section 6, which requires a 60-day prior notice before conversion, potentially exposing personal faith decisions to state oversight. The plea also targets Section 9(2), alleging gender discrimination regarding enhanced penalties for women, and Section 13, which shifts the burden of proof onto those conducting or aiding the conversion. The petitioner seeks to have the law struck down or restricted to cases involving actual force, fraud, or coercion.