Chhattisgarh Anti-Conversion Law 2026 Passed

Chhattisgarh Passes Stringent Anti-Conversion Law Amid Political Opposition

Why in the News ?

The Chhattisgarh Assembly has passed the Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026, introducing stricter provisions against religious conversions. The move sparked controversy as the Opposition boycotted proceedings, raising concerns over constitutional rights and misuse of law.

Chhattisgarh Anti-Conversion Law 2026 Passed

Key Provisions of Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026:

  • The Chhattisgarh Dharm Swatantra Vidheyak, 2026 replaces the earlier 1968 law of undivided Madhya Pradesh.
  • Declares conversions through force, fraud, coercion, undue influence, or allurement as illegal.
  • Expands “allurement” to include money, gifts, jobs, free education, medical aid, marriage, or better lifestyle promises.
  • Defines “coercion” broadly to include psychological pressure, threats, or social boycott.
  • Introduces stringent penalties, including:
    • Up to life imprisonment
    • Fines up to ₹25 lakh
  • Defines mass conversion as conversion of two or more persons, punishable with 10 years to life imprisonment.
  • Provides for special courts to ensure speedy trials.
  • Mandates prior declaration and publication of conversion details on official government portals.

Rationale, Debate and Concerns

  • The government, led by Vishnu Deo Sai, argues the law aims to prevent conversions exploiting poverty and lack of awareness.
  • Seeks to ensure transparency and regulation in religious conversions.
  • However, the Opposition boycotted the Assembly, demanding a review of the Bill.
  • Critics argue it may violate freedom of religion and lead to harassment or misuse.
  • Concerns over broad definitions that may criminalise voluntary conversions.
  • Raises questions on privacy, as individuals must disclose conversion intentions publicly.
  • Debate reflects tension between individual rights and state regulation.
  • Similar laws exist in several States, indicating a broader policy trend.

About Freedom of Religion :

●      Article 25: Guarantees freedom of conscience and right to profess, practise, and propagate religion.

●      Subject to public order, morality, and health restrictions.

●      States can regulate conversions under laws preventing forced or fraudulent conversions.

●      The Supreme Court in Rev. Stainislaus vs State of MP (1977) upheld such laws, stating the right to propagate ≠ right to convert.

●      Anti-conversion laws exist in States like Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh.

●      Key issues: definition of consent, misuse, burden of proof, and individual autonomy.

●      Balance required between religious freedom and protection from exploitation.

●      Important for topics: Fundamental Rights, governance, and social justice.