Maharashtra's Anti-Conversion Law Takes Effect Amid Controversy
The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, came into effect on August 28, mandating a 60-day notice to the district magistrate for religious conversions. The law imposes prison terms of up to seven years for first-time violations and up to ten years for repeat offences. Church leaders in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region are circulating consent forms to worshippers to affirm voluntary attendance at prayer meetings. Concerns have been raised by Christian, Muslim, and Buddhist groups about the law's potential to infringe on religious practices. The Act is the thirteenth of its kind in India, following similar laws in states like Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. Recent police actions in Pune have already sparked debate over the law's application and the safeguards necessary to protect lawful religious practices.
Published 2 days ago • 27 Aug 2026, 11:24 AM IST