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Chhattisgarh Passes Anti-Conversion Law to Curb Illegal Religious Conversions

The Chhattisgarh Assembly has passed the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026, which introduces stricter regulations and penalties to curb religious conversions carried out through inducement, pressure, or misinformation. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai stated the law mandates a transparent process requiring prior intimation and public scrutiny to ensure conversions are free from coercion. He emphasized that the legislation aims to restore social balance, trust, and protect the state's cultural values. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government has also introduced a similar draft bill in its assembly with provisions for imprisonment.

Key Points: Chhattisgarh Passes Freedom of Religion Bill 2026

  • Stricter penal measures against illegal conversions
  • Requires prior intimation and public notice for conversions
  • Aims to protect social harmony and cultural identity
  • Maharashtra also introduces similar draft bill
2 min read

Freedom of Religion Bill 2026 passed to curb illegal conversions, strengthen social harmony: Chhattisgarh CM Sai

Chhattisgarh Assembly passes a stricter anti-conversion law to curb illegal conversions through inducement or force and promote social harmony.

"This legislation will strengthen peace, harmony, and the protection of cultural values in the state. - CM Vishnu Deo Sai"

Raipur, March 20

The Chhattisgarh Assembly on Friday passed the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026, described by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai as a significant milestone for preserving the state's cultural identity and social balance, the release said.

Extending greetings on the Hindu New Year and Chaitra Navratri, he prayed to Goddess Durga for prosperity, peace, and well-being in the state.

According to the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister's Office (CMO), CM Sai said incidents of religious conversions through inducement, pressure, or misinformation targeting vulnerable sections had been affecting social harmony, and the new law would effectively curb such practices and restore balance and trust in society.

The Chief Minister stated that any process of religious conversion will now have to be lawful and transparent, requiring prior intimation to the authorised officer, followed by public notice and scrutiny within a fixed timeframe, ensuring conversions take place without inducement or coercion.

He added that the earlier law was less effective in preventing such activities, but the new provisions include stricter penal measures, enabling strong action against offenders.

CM Sai said unchecked conversions can lead to social imbalance and unrest, and this legislation will strengthen peace, harmony, and the protection of cultural values in the state.

Paying tribute to late Dilip Singh Judeo, he said his awareness campaign against conversions continues to guide society. He emphasised that lasting positive change in this direction will come through public awareness and participation.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the bill will enhance transparency, justice, and social unity, and help establish Chhattisgarh as a strong, balanced, and culturally rich state.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government also introduced the draft of the Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026, in the Maharashtra assembly earlier, with a provision of imprisonment.

The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill aims to prevent religious conversions carried out through force, fraud, coercion, allurement, or marriage and to stop religious conversions obtained by misrepresentation, undue influence, or inducement.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
While the intent to prevent forced conversions is good, I worry about implementation. Will this be used to harass interfaith couples or genuine converts? The law must not become a tool for vigilantes. We need clarity.
A
Aman W
Finally! Our cultural fabric was being torn apart by foreign-funded missionaries targeting poor Adivasis with money and false promises. This bill will safeguard our indigenous traditions and ensure social harmony. Jai Chhattisgarh!
S
Sarah B
As someone who values religious freedom, I find this concerning. The right to convert is a fundamental right under Article 25. Adding bureaucratic hurdles might discourage people from exercising this right freely. The focus should be on education, not control.
V
Vikram M
Good move by CM Sai. In our village, we've seen people lured with medical help and school admissions. This creates tension. If conversion is genuine and from the heart, there should be no problem following a transparent process.
K
Kriti O
Hope Maharashtra follows through as well. Social harmony is paramount. But the government must also address the root causes - poverty and lack of education - that make people susceptible to allurement in the first place.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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