The Maharashtra Assembly on Monday night passed the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill 2026, aimed at curbing forced religious conversions. The law seeks to prevent conversions carried out through fraud, inducement, threats, or solely for marriage. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, while introducing the bill, clarified that it is not directed against any religion and is intended only to stop illegal conversions.
The legislation imposes stringent penalties on offenders. Those who induce conversion fraudulently under the pretext of marriage can face up to seven years in prison and a fine of ₹1 lakh. If the victims are minors, women, or belong to SC/ST communities, the prison term remains seven years, while the fine may go up to ₹5 lakh. Repeat offenders or those involved in mass conversions could face up to 10 years of imprisonment.
Fadnavis emphasized that Article 25 of the Constitution grants every citizen the right to follow the religion of their choice, but this right does not extend to forcing others to convert. He noted that similar laws are already in place in states such as Odisha, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh. Highlighting the bill’s intent, he said it aims to protect women deceived in the name of love or marriage. The opposition Shiv Sena (UBT) also supported the legislation.
During the assembly debate, some members raised concerns over the requirement for individuals to notify the district magistrate 60 days prior to conversion, claiming it violates privacy and constitutional rights. The government clarified that the notification is meant only to ensure the conversion is voluntary and not coerced. Despite objections from Congress and Samajwadi Party members, the bill was passed with majority support in the Maharashtra Assembly.