The Chhattisgarh government on Tuesday approved the draft of a new bill aimed at curbing forced religious conversions, marking a significant development in the state’s legislative agenda as it pushes to tighten regulations around faith changes. The draft — named the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026 — was cleared by the state cabinet in a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai in the ongoing budget session of the assembly.

The proposed legislation seeks to prohibit religious conversions carried out through force, allurement, fraudulent means, undue influence or misrepresentation, according to official statements. Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao said the bill is intended to strengthen the state’s existing framework on religious freedom by ensuring that conversions occur only out of free will and without manipulation.

Under the draft bill, authorities are expected to introduce formal procedures for persons intending to change their religion, potentially requiring them to provide prior notice or undergo verification to confirm the voluntariness of their decision. Government officials have framed the measure as a protective step to guard against coercive practices and maintain social order.

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The move is part of a broader trend across several Indian states, where similar anti‑conversion laws have been proposed or enacted. Supporters argue these laws prevent exploitation and ensure individuals freely choose their faith. Critics, however, have expressed concern that such provisions may infringe on constitutional rights guaranteeing freedom of religion and could be misused against minority communities.

Chhattisgarh’s current legislation on religious conversion dates back to the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 1968, which has been in force for over two decades. The proposed bill would significantly update and expand the legal mechanisms to regulate conversions, reflecting evolving political and social priorities in the state.

Once tabled in the state legislature, the bill is likely to spark debate among lawmakers, civil society groups and constitutional experts as it moves through the legislative process. Observers say the measure’s implementation, if passed, will be closely watched for its impact on social dynamics and religious freedom in the region.

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