Maharashtra Tables Anti-Conversion Bill in Assembly

The Maharashtra government introduced the Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026, in the state Legislative Assembly on Friday, aiming to curb unlawful religious conversions through coercion, fraud, or inducement, particularly in cases involving marriage. The legislation, tabled by Minister of State for Home Pankaj Bhoyar during the ongoing Budget Session, requires a 60-day advance notice for any intended conversion and imposes penalties of up to seven years in prison and fines reaching Rs 5 lakh for violations.

The bill defines unlawful conversion as any shift in religion achieved via allurement, such as offers of gifts, employment, free education, promises of marriage, or promises of a better lifestyle; coercion through threats, psychological pressure, or physical force; or deceit, including misrepresentation or undue influence. Mass conversions, involving two or more people simultaneously, fall under the same category. For offenses targeting vulnerable groups, including minors, women, individuals with unsound minds, or members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, the fine increases to Rs 5 lakh. Repeat offenders face up to 10 years imprisonment and fines of Rs 7 lakh....