Maharashtra Introduces Freedom of Religion Bill Regulating Religious Conversions with Penalties

Maharashtra introduced the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026 to regulate religious conversions, requiring a 60-day prior notice and post-conversion declaration. The bill prohibits conversions by force, fraud, inducement, or marriage, defining allurement broadly to include gifts, money, employment, and promises of marriage or better lifestyle. Violations, especially involving women, minors, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes, attract imprisonment up to 10 years and fines. The law mandates police registration of complaints and aims to protect constitutional religious freedom while preventing unlawful conversions.