📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Governor Secretariat, Chattisgarh
Politics
Chhattisgarh Governor Signs Bill Introducing Strict Penalties for Illegal Conversions
✍️ Newsonair
🗓 18 Aug 2026, 07:48 AM
👁 1
The Governor of Chhattisgarh has signed a Freedom of Religion Bill that imposes severe penalties on illegal conversions, aiming to curb forced religious changes.
The Governor of Chhattisgarh has signed the Freedom of Religion Bill into law, a move that introduces stringent penalties for individuals and organisations involved in illegal conversions. The legislation seeks to safeguard religious freedom while curbing coercive practices that have raised communal tensions in the state.
The bill stipulates that anyone found guilty of facilitating an illegal conversion will face imprisonment and fines, though the exact duration and amount have not yet been disclosed. It also provides for the confiscation of property used to influence conversions, aiming to deter future violations.
While the government argues that the measure will protect vulnerable communities, opposition parties have expressed concerns about potential misuse of the law to target minority groups. They call for clear safeguards and transparent implementation procedures.
With the Governor’s signature, the bill is now ready to be presented to the state legislature for debate and final approval, marking a significant step in Chhattisgarh’s legislative agenda on religious matters.
The bill stipulates that anyone found guilty of facilitating an illegal conversion will face imprisonment and fines, though the exact duration and amount have not yet been disclosed. It also provides for the confiscation of property used to influence conversions, aiming to deter future violations.
While the government argues that the measure will protect vulnerable communities, opposition parties have expressed concerns about potential misuse of the law to target minority groups. They call for clear safeguards and transparent implementation procedures.
With the Governor’s signature, the bill is now ready to be presented to the state legislature for debate and final approval, marking a significant step in Chhattisgarh’s legislative agenda on religious matters.