The Chhattisgarh Assembly has taken a significant step by passing a robust anti-conversion bill aimed at regulating religious conversions within the state. The legislation, termed the 2026 Freedom of Religion Bill, introduces stringent penalties that include potential life imprisonment and fines reaching up to Rs 25 lakh for specific violations. This new bill is set to replace a nearly five-decade-old law from 1968, which was initially implemented during the period when Madhya Pradesh was undivided, before Chhattisgarh was established as a separate state in 2000.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized the necessity of this law, stating that it aims to prevent religious conversions that exploit individuals’ vulnerabilities such as poverty and lack of education. He remarked that the outdated 1968 legislation failed to adequately address issues like coercion, deceit, and undue influence that were often associated with such conversions. The new bill has sparked a significant response from the political landscape, particularly from opposition parties, who have chosen to boycott the legislative proceedings to advocate for a more thorough examination of the proposed measures.
Under the new law, individuals seeking to convert must submit a formal declaration to the district magistrate or a designated official. This process is designed to ensure transparency and accountability. Following the submission, the authorities are mandated to publish the details of the conversion proposal on a dedicated website as well as in local government offices including the tehsildar and gram panchayat offices, as well as the local police station. This openness aims to make the process more scrutinized and to discourage fraudulent activities.
The law also grants the authorities extensive powers to investigate complaints and verify the legitimacy of conversions. They are empowered to summon records and take appropriate actions against any fraudulent practices detected during the process. By focusing on transparency and regulation, the Chhattisgarh government aims to uphold the sanctity of religious practices while protecting vulnerable populations from exploitation.
The passage of this bill marks a pivotal moment in the state’s legislative framework concerning religious freedom and conversion practices. As the bill moves forward, it will be crucial to monitor its implementation and the societal reactions it elicits. The broader implications of this law could influence discussions around religious freedom in India, where beliefs and practices often intertwine with cultural identity.
