Churches in Mumbai have begun requiring attendees to sign declarations stating they came to pray of their own free will, as Maharashtra’s new anti-conversion law takes effect, sparking debates over religious freedom and state overreach.
Some churches in and around Mumbai have started asking worshippers to sign forms affirming they attended of my own free will,
a measure linked to Maharashtra’s new law against religious conversion. The law, which came into force in late August, bans conversions achieved through force, fraud, coercion, or inducement, and mandates advance notice for voluntary conversions. Violations could result in up to seven years, rising to 10 for a repeat offence.
Prayer Meetings Face Increased Scrutiny
Incidents of disrupted prayer meetings have fueled fears. An Indian Express investigation documented five such disruptions in Mumbai between April and July, leading to nine police cases. Seven targeted worshippers or organizers, while two involved members of the Hindu nationalist group Bajrang Dal. The state government has not commented on the cases, leaving questions about enforcement and intent.
The law’s reach extends beyond formal conversions. Critics argue it risks entangling the state in personal decisions, such as interfaith marriages or charitable activities. The line between force and choice is unclear, said Tribhuvan, noting that Hindu nationalist groups have long accused Christians of using money, schooling or medical care
to lure converts—a claim the government has not addressed directly.
Historical Tensions Underpin the Debate
Maharashtra is one of over a dozen Indian states with anti-conversion laws, many of which have faced legal challenges. The laws often reflect long-standing tensions between religious communities, with Hindu nationalist groups alleging “love jihad” conspiracies—claims of Muslim men converting Hindu women—and similar accusations against Christian institutions. These narratives, though denied by religious leaders, continue to shape public discourse and policy.
The new law’s passage aligns with broader political trends in India, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party has supported similar measures in several states. While the government insists the law addresses rising forced conversions, critics argue it enables harassment of minority groups.