The Maharashtra government has announced its intention to introduce a strict law aimed at preventing religious conversions in the state. This decision was shared by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule during a recent session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. The move comes after concerns were raised by several legislators about alleged forced conversions, especially in tribal districts such as Dhule and Nandurbar.
According to the minister, the proposed law will have robust provisions to address cases where conversions are reportedly carried out through inducements, coercion, or fraudulent means. The government has also ordered an enquiry into unauthorised church constructions in tribal regions. Any church found to be built without proper authorisation will be demolished within six months, as per the state’s directive.
The issue of religious conversion was brought to the forefront by BJP MLAs, who alleged that tribals were being converted to Christianity through allurements like medical aid and foreign-funded welfare activities. The MLAs demanded that converted tribals should be barred from availing benefits under government welfare schemes meant for Scheduled Tribes. In response, the government stated that a committee would be formed to look into these concerns and recommend appropriate measures.
The proposed anti-conversion law is expected to draw inspiration from similar laws enacted in other states. The bill, which was introduced as a private member’s bill earlier in the year, seeks to make it a criminal offence to coerce or induce anyone into changing their religion. The draft suggests imprisonment and fines for those found guilty, with stricter penalties if the victim belongs to a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe.
The announcement has sparked debate across Maharashtra. Supporters of the law argue that it will help protect vulnerable communities from being exploited or misled. On the other hand, critics, including some minority groups and opposition parties, have raised concerns that such a law could be misused and may target specific communities unfairly.
Revenue Minister Bawankule assured the assembly that the government would consult with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to ensure the law’s provisions are both effective and fair. He emphasised that the main goal is to prevent forced or fraudulent conversions, not to interfere with genuine expressions of faith.
The government’s plan to bring in a stringent anti-conversion law marks a significant development in Maharashtra’s approach to religious matters. The coming months will likely see further discussions, debates, and possibly amendments as the draft bill is finalised and presented for approval in the assembly.
