Maharashtra Assembly passes Freedom of Religion Bill
Change
The Maharashtra Assembly passed the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026 on March 16, 2026.
Why it matters
The Bill criminalizes conversions secured by coercion, fraud, inducement or marriage. Conversions effected through marriage carry imprisonment of seven years and a fine of ₹1 lakh. Conversions involving a minor, a person of unsound mind, a woman or a person belonging to Scheduled Castes or Scheduled Tribes carry imprisonment of seven years and a fine of ₹5 lakh. Mass conversions are punishable by seven years' imprisonment and a ₹5 lakh fine; repeat offenders face up to ten years' imprisonment and a ₹5 lakh fine.
Implications
- • Individuals and entities that facilitate conversions via the listed means face criminal prosecution and fixed fines.
- • Allegations involving minors, persons of unsound mind, women, or Scheduled Castes/Tribes trigger higher statutory sentences and larger fines.
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