Maharashtra Introduces Anti-Conversion Bill Amid Support and Criticism

Maharashtra introduced the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026 to prohibit religious conversions through coercion, fraud, inducement, or marriage, with penalties including imprisonment and fines. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the bill, citing cases of women being lured and abandoned, and said opposition parties politicize the issue. Critics like AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi argue the law infringes on constitutional freedoms, citing broad terms like 'brainwashing' and police powers to act without complaints, raising concerns over potential misuse.