BJP-led Maharashtra govt’s anti-conversion law sparks Christian protests, fears of minority targeting
Mumbai: Anger is growing among Christians and other minority groups in India’s Maharashtra over a controversial anti-conversion law passed by the BJP-led state government, with analysts warning that its sweeping provisions could be used to target legitimate religious activities and individuals exercising their freedom of conscience.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026 prohibits conversion through force, fraud, coercion or allurement, but defines some of those offenses broadly. Activities that can constitute prohibited “allurement” include offers of free education or employment and promises of a better lifestyle, while portraying one religion as superior to another can also fall within the law’s provisions.
Christian leaders have emerged among the strongest opponents of the legislation, arguing that its provisions could blur the distinction between coercive conversion and legitimate religious activities, including preaching, charity and community service.
Catholic bishops in western India have also raised concerns that the legislation could undermine constitutionally protected freedom of conscience and religion.
That opposition spilled onto the streets of Pune this week, where more than 500 Christians from different churches joined a peaceful march organized by the Pune Christian Forum, demanding safeguards against possible misuse of the law.
Protesters called for a constitutional and legal review of the legislation and clearer protections distinguishing religious gatherings and activities from coercive attempts to convert people. They also demanded action against false conversion accusations and the selective targeting of religious minorities.
Pastor Rajesh Kelkar, president of the Pune Christian Forum, described the demonstration as the first organized protest in Maharashtra specifically against the new law and said the group hoped similar demonstrations would be held across the state.
The concerns are particularly significant because allegations of religious conversion have repeatedly triggered confrontations involving Christians in India, including disruptions of prayer meetings and attacks on pastors and worshippers by Hindutva groups.
The Pune Christian Forum submitted its demands to senior civil and police authorities, calling on the state government to prevent false complaints and ensure that minority communities are not selectively targeted.
