The Maharashtra government has moved to tighten legal oversight of religious conversions by introducing a new law aimed at preventing conversions carried out through coercion, inducement, fraud or marriage. The proposed legislation, titled the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026, was tabled in the state Assembly during the ongoing Budget Session.
According to the state government, the bill seeks to address cases where religious conversions are allegedly organised through forceful or misleading methods that influence an individual’s free consent. Officials argue that existing legal provisions are insufficient to deal with such cases and that a dedicated law is required to maintain social harmony and public order.
The proposed legislation defines “unlawful conversion” as a change of religion carried out through means such as coercion, fraud, misrepresentation, threat, or inducements including money, gifts, employment, free education or promises of marriage. Conversions conducted using such methods would be considered illegal and punishable under the law.
Under the bill, those found guilty of carrying out unlawful conversions could face imprisonment of up to seven years along with financial penalties. The offence would also be treated as cognisable and non-bailable, enabling police to initiate investigations and arrests without a warrant.
The legislation also introduces procedural requirements for individuals planning to convert their religion. A person intending to convert, as well as those organising the ceremony, would need to notify authorities at least 60 days in advance. After the conversion, a declaration must be submitted within 21 days to the designated authority for official registration.
Another controversial provision states that any marriage undertaken solely for the purpose of unlawful conversion can be declared void by a court. In such cases, children born from such unions would be considered to follow the religion of the mother prior to the marriage.
The bill has sparked debate even before detailed legislative discussions begin. While the government argues that the law is necessary to prevent forced conversions and protect vulnerable individuals, several civil society groups and opposition leaders have raised concerns about potential misuse and its possible impact on personal freedom and interfaith relationships.
If passed, Maharashtra will join several other Indian states that have introduced similar “freedom of religion” laws aimed at regulating religious conversions.
