📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Wilfredor
Religion
Chhattisgarh’s new anti‑conversion law sees churches warning non‑Christians: ‘Enter at own risk’
✍️ The Hindu
🗓 25 Sep 2026, 03:36 AM
👁 9
The anti‑conversion legislation has come into force in Chhattisgarh, prompting several churches to display notices telling non‑Christians that entry is at their own risk.
The anti‑conversion law enacted by the Chhattisgarh state government has officially taken effect, aiming to curb conversions that are alleged to occur through force, fraud or inducement. In response, a number of Christian churches across the state have put up public notices warning non‑Christians that visiting their premises is “at one’s own risk.”
The notices, posted on church doors and notice boards, do not cite specific penalties but reflect the apprehension among congregations about possible legal scrutiny under the new statute. Church leaders have urged followers to remain vigilant while the law’s implementation unfolds.
Legal experts note that the legislation has sparked debate nationwide, with supporters arguing it protects vulnerable communities and critics warning it could infringe on religious freedom. The situation in Chhattisgarh will be closely watched as the first state to enforce such a measure.
Authorities have not released detailed guidelines on how the law will be enforced, and no arrests or prosecutions have been reported so far. The churches’ warning signals a cautious stance as they navigate the new regulatory environment.
The development adds to a growing discourse on the balance between anti‑forced‑conversion measures and the constitutional right to practice and propagate one’s faith in India.
The notices, posted on church doors and notice boards, do not cite specific penalties but reflect the apprehension among congregations about possible legal scrutiny under the new statute. Church leaders have urged followers to remain vigilant while the law’s implementation unfolds.
Legal experts note that the legislation has sparked debate nationwide, with supporters arguing it protects vulnerable communities and critics warning it could infringe on religious freedom. The situation in Chhattisgarh will be closely watched as the first state to enforce such a measure.
Authorities have not released detailed guidelines on how the law will be enforced, and no arrests or prosecutions have been reported so far. The churches’ warning signals a cautious stance as they navigate the new regulatory environment.
The development adds to a growing discourse on the balance between anti‑forced‑conversion measures and the constitutional right to practice and propagate one’s faith in India.