Bill to Curb Forced Conversions, ‘Love Jihad’ Introduced in Maharashtra Assembly

Mumbai: In a significant move aimed at curbing issues related to conversion and Love Jihad in Maharashtra, Bharatiya Party (BJP) leaders Atul Bhatkhalkar and Sudhir Mungantiwar have introduced a Private Member Bill during the current budget session of the Maharashtra Assembly. The bill seeks to take concrete legal measures against forced conversions and conversions occurring post-marriage.

Sudhir Mungantiwar addressed the media regarding the bill, stating that its introduction is a necessary step to prevent cases where individuals are coerced or pressured into changing their religion. He emphasized that the primary goal of the bill is to address instances not only of forced conversions but also of one-sided conversions associated with marriage.

The proposed legislation includes provisions that would make it a criminal offence to coerce an individual of any faith into conversion. Mungantiwar further stated that if the bill is brought to the assembly for discussion, he plans to recommend stringent educational provisions aimed at preventing such practices.

This move by the BJP has sparked discussions among various stakeholders in the state, as the issues of forced conversions and Love Jihad remain contentious topics in Indian politics. The bill is expected to reignite debates over religious freedom, personal choices, and the role of the state in such matters. As the session continues, all eyes will be on the assembly discussions surrounding this controversial legislation and its implications for Maharashtra’s societal fabric.