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Maharashtra anti-conversion law implementation

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2026-08-28 14:01 UTC → 2026-09-12 03:14 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, has introduced new legal frameworks regarding religious conversion in India. Ahead of the law taking full effect on August 28, Christian groups in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region began using self-declaration forms to ensure worshippers state they are attending services voluntarily, aiming to prevent accusations of forced conversion. The legislation criminalizes conversions achieved through fraud, inducement, or undue influence, with repeat offenders facing up to 10 years in prison. Under these rules, individuals intending to change their religion must notify a district magistrate at least 60 days in advance. Tensions have risen in the region, with reports of approximately 11 attacks on churches over a six-month period. Political reaction to the law has included criticism from NCP (SP) leader Majid Memon, who argued that the new legislation is unnecessary because forced conversion is already a crime under existing laws. Memon emphasized that the Constitution guarantees religious freedom to adults and questioned the necessity of laws centered on concepts such as ‘love jihad’. On September 11, 2026, Islamic scholar Maulana Halimullah Farooque Ahmed Khan filed a writ petition in the Bombay High Court challenging the constitutional validity of the Act. The petition argues the law violates fundamental rights to equality, free speech, privacy, dignity, and religious freedom. Specific scrutiny is directed at Section 2(a), which defines ‘allurement’ through broad terms like ‘better lifestyle’ and ‘divine healing’, potentially criminalizing charitable work or religious teaching. The petitioner also challenged the 60-day notice requirement, Section 9(2) regarding gender discrimination in penalties, and Section 13, which shifts the burden of proof onto those conducting or aiding conversions.

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