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Religion
Chhattisgarh’s anti‑conversion law faces legal challenge in state court
✍️ International Christian Concern
🗓 14 Oct 2026, 12:32 PM
👁 19
A petition filed by a religious‑rights group has questioned the constitutionality of Chhattisgarh’s anti‑conversion legislation, prompting a hearing in the state’s high court.
A religious‑rights organization has approached the Chhattisgarh High Court seeking a declaration that the state’s anti‑conversion law violates the Constitution’s guarantee of freedom of religion. The petition argues that the statute, which criminalises conversions carried out through force, fraud or inducement, imposes undue restrictions on personal belief and practice.
The anti‑conversion law, enacted by the Chhattisgarh legislature, requires individuals intending to change their faith to obtain prior permission from authorities and penalises any conversion deemed coercive. Critics contend that the provisions are vague and can be misused to target minority communities.
During the hearing, the court reserved its decision, asking the state government to submit a detailed response on how the law aligns with constitutional safeguards. Legal experts note that the case could set a precedent for similar statutes in other Indian states, where anti‑conversion measures have sparked ongoing debate.
Human‑rights groups have welcomed the challenge, saying it offers an opportunity to reaffirm India’s secular principles. The outcome of the case will be closely watched by both civil‑society advocates and political leaders across the country.
The anti‑conversion law, enacted by the Chhattisgarh legislature, requires individuals intending to change their faith to obtain prior permission from authorities and penalises any conversion deemed coercive. Critics contend that the provisions are vague and can be misused to target minority communities.
During the hearing, the court reserved its decision, asking the state government to submit a detailed response on how the law aligns with constitutional safeguards. Legal experts note that the case could set a precedent for similar statutes in other Indian states, where anti‑conversion measures have sparked ongoing debate.
Human‑rights groups have welcomed the challenge, saying it offers an opportunity to reaffirm India’s secular principles. The outcome of the case will be closely watched by both civil‑society advocates and political leaders across the country.