Consent forms, notices, prison terms: Maharashtra anti-conversion law | Explained
Maharashtra has implemented a new Freedom of Religion Act that mandates a 60-day notice period for religious conversions and imposes strict prison sentences for forced conversions. The law has sparked concerns among minority communities regarding its potential impact on religious freedom and daily practice.
Why it matters
The legislation highlights ongoing tensions regarding religious conversion laws in India and the balance between state regulation and individual rights.
The story so far: The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026 , which comes into force on August 28, requires anyone who intends to convert to another religion to give a 60 days’ notice to the District Magistrate. It also sets prison terms of up to seven years for a first violation and up to 10 years for a repeat one, if found guilty of forcing anyone to convert.
The Pune Police have already begun registering cases even before the Act was notified, only to later revoke it calling it a “mistake". Churches in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region have begun circulating a consent form among worshippers as a precaution.
Several minority communites have raised concern: where does the law’s target end and everyday practice begin?
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