Maharashtra Anti-Conversion Law Stirs Concerns Among Minority Communities

Maharashtra's law intended to prevent forced religious conversions has sparked anxiety among minority communities and those in interfaith relationships, who worry the Act may be weaponised against them.

The legislation introduces requirements for consent forms, notices, and potential prison terms for violations. Critics argue these provisions could discourage legitimate religious choices and create a chilling effect on interfaith marriages and voluntary conversions.

Minority groups have expressed concern that the law's enforcement mechanisms could be abused to target their communities unfairly, despite the government's stated intent to prevent coercive conversion practices.