• UGI USER
  • Apr 11, 2024
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GUJARAT MANDATES APPROVAL FOR HINDU-TO-BUDDHISM CONVERSIONS, RECOGNIZING SEPARATE RELIGIONS.

Why in the news?

Gujarat mandates prior approval for conversions from Hinduism to Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, clarifying them as separate religions.

source:slideserve

About Buddhism as a Separate Religion:

  • The Gujarat government clarifies that Buddhism is considered a distinct religion.
  • Conversions from Hinduism to Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism now require prior approval from the district magistrate under the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act, 2003.
  • The circular, issued on April 8, addresses discrepancies in handling conversion applications.
  • Concerns arose as conversions to Buddhism weren’t processed according to regulations.
What is the Status of Anti-Conversion Laws in India?

Constitutional Provision:

  • Article 25 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the freedom to profess, propagate, and practice religion.
  • Individuals have the right to manage their religious affairs, with certain limitations related to public order, morality, and health.
  • Anti-conversion laws prohibit forced conversions, ensuring individuals are not compelled to adopt any religion against their will.

About Anti-Conversion Laws in Various States:

  • Orissa Freedom of Religion Act, 1967:

○      Enacted to restrict religious conversions conducted through force, fraud, or inducements.

  • Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act, 2003:

○      Imposes restrictions on religious conversions carried out by coercion or allurements.

  • Jharkhand Freedom of Religion Act, 2017:

○      Aims to prevent forced conversions and ensure freedom of religion.

  • Uttarakhand Freedom of Religious Act, 2018:

○      Intended to regulate religious conversions and protect individuals from coercion or inducements.

  • Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2021:

○      Enacted to safeguard the right to freedom of religion and prevent forced conversions in the state.

source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/buddhism-separate-religion-hindus-must-seek-permission-to-convert-says-gujarat-govt-circular-9263316/#:~:text=The%20Gujarat%20government%20has%20issued,Freedom%20of%20Religion%20Act%2C%202003.