The Chhattisgarh government has tabled the Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026, in the state assembly to curb forced religious conversions through coercive or fraudulent means. The bill, approved by the state cabinet on March 10 under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, targets conversions conducted via force, inducement, fraud, misrepresentation, or undue influence.
It aims to strengthen legal safeguards ensuring religious choices remain voluntary, replacing weaker provisions in the existing 1968 Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act. The legislation responds to rising concerns over manipulative practices, including at faith-healing gatherings known as "changai sabhas."
Introduced during the ongoing Budget Session of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, the draft expands enforcement mechanisms and penalties. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma highlighted its focus on modern conversion tactics, building on complaints of financial incentives and psychological pressure in tribal areas. The move aligns Chhattisgarh with over a dozen states now enforcing strict anti-conversion laws.
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Supporters, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), welcomed the bill as a necessary check against "love jihad" and illegal proselytization. VHP spokesperson Vinod Bansal praised its potential for severe punishments, noting it addresses long-standing grievances in BJP-ruled states. The government frames it as protecting constitutional rights to freely practice faith without external coercion.
Critics argue such laws risk misuse against minority communities, potentially curbing legitimate religious freedoms. Past enforcement in similar statutes has led to accusations of vigilantism and selective targeting, though proponents insist judicial oversight will prevent abuse. The Supreme Court has previously examined related challenges, emphasizing voluntary consent as key.
As debate unfolds in Raipur, the bill's passage could reshape religious dynamics in Chhattisgarh's tribal heartland. With public order listed under state jurisdiction, its outcome will test balancing individual liberty against organized conversion efforts, influencing national trends on faith-based legislation.
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