Maharashtra Introduces Freedom of Religion Bill Amid Support and Opposition

Maharashtra introduced the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026 to prevent religious conversions through coercion, fraud, inducement, or marriage, with penalties including imprisonment and fines. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the bill, stating it targets unlawful conversions and protects vulnerable groups, denying it targets any community. Opposition voices, including AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, criticized the bill for broad provisions like penalizing 'brainwashing through education' and allowing police action without complaints, arguing it infringes on constitutional freedoms.