Maharashtra Anti-Conversion Law Takes Effect After Presidential Assent
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
Maharashtra has become the 13th Indian state to notify an anti-conversion law, with the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act taking effect after its publication in the official gazette on July 30. The law criminalizes religious conversions through force, allurement, fraud, inducement, or marriage, and includes controversial provisions like a 60-day notice period and burden of proof on the accused. This development is significant as it adds to the growing list of states with similar laws, sparking debates on religious freedom and personal liberty.
Background
The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act was passed by both houses of the state legislature earlier in 2026, received the governor's assent on April 6, and was approved by President Droupadi Murmu on July 17. The law is part of a trend among several Indian states to enact anti-conversion legislation, with Maharashtra being the latest to join.
Key facts
Maharashtra became the 13th Indian state to notify an anti-conversion law.
The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act took effect after publication in the official gazette on July 30.
The law criminalises religious conversions through force, allurement, fraud, inducement, or marriage.
It makes unlawful religious conversion a cognisable and non-bailable offence, punishable with imprisonment up to seven years.
A person intending to convert must give 60 days' notice to the designated authority.
The burden of proof that the conversion was voluntary lies on the accused and anyone who assisted or aided the conversion.
The law includes provisions for interfaith marriages where conversion is alleged through such means, especially if objections are raised by families.
The bill was passed by both houses of the Maharashtra legislature, with governor Jishnu Dev Varma giving assent on April 6.
President Droupadi Murmu approved the legislation on July 17.
Civil rights groups have opposed the law as a violation of individual freedom and privacy, and fear misuse against interfaith couples.
Prelims pointers
- Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act
- President Droupadi Murmu
- Governor Jishnu Dev Varma
- Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
- 13th state to notify anti-conversion law
- Cognisable and non-bailable offence
- 60 days notice period
- Burden of proof on accused
- Gazette publication date: July 30
- Presidential assent date: July 17
Mains angles
- Discuss the constitutional validity of anti-conversion laws in light of Article 25 (freedom of religion) and Article 21 (personal liberty).
- Critically examine the provisions of the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, especially the burden of proof and notice period, in the context of right to privacy.
- Analyse the impact of anti-conversion laws on interfaith marriages and social harmony.
- Evaluate the role of the judiciary in reviewing such state legislations.