The government of Maharashtra, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, introduced the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill 2026 in the state assembly on Friday.
The proposed legislation aims to prevent religious conversions carried out through force, deception, inducements, or marriage, according to a report by Press Trust of India (PTI).
The bill outlines strict punishments for unlawful religious conversions and introduces specific safeguards for vulnerable groups.
Jail Term and Fine for Illegal Conversions
Under the proposed law, religious conversions carried out on the pretext of marriage or through coercion, fraud, or inducement will attract up to seven years of imprisonment along with a fine of ₹1 lakh.
The bill states that such acts are considered illegal if they involve:
- Force or coercion
- Deception or misrepresentation
- Financial or material inducement
- Undue influence or fraudulent means
The legislation also makes it illegal for any individual or institution to attempt to convert someone through these methods.
Stricter Protection for Vulnerable Groups
The bill includes enhanced penalties when unlawful conversion involves vulnerable individuals such as:
- Minors
- Women
- Persons of unsound mind
- Members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
Violations involving these groups could lead to seven years of imprisonment and a fine of ₹5 lakh.
Tougher Penalties for Mass Conversions
The legislation also introduces stricter punishment for mass conversions and repeat offenders.
- Mass conversions: Up to seven years in prison and a fine of ₹5 lakh
- Repeat offenders: Up to 10 years in jail
These provisions aim to curb organised efforts to convert large numbers of people through unlawful means.
Mandatory Action by Police
The bill also outlines specific responsibilities for police authorities. Officers will be required to register complaints filed by victims of alleged forced conversions.
This provision seeks to ensure quicker legal action and accountability in cases related to unlawful religious conversion.
Government’s Justification for the Bill
The Maharashtra government said the legislation is necessary due to reported incidents of forced and organised religious conversions in different parts of the country.
Officials have argued that vulnerable sections of society are often targeted through inducements, making stricter legal safeguards necessary.
Constitutional Right to Choose Religion
The bill acknowledges that the Constitution of India guarantees individuals the right to freely choose and practice their religion.
However, it emphasises that conversions obtained through force, coercion, fraud, or inducement are illegal and punishable under the proposed law.