Raipur: In a decisive step to protect religious freedom and ensure social harmony, the Chhattisgarh Cabinet has approved the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026, aimed at curbing illegal and coercive religious conversions in the state. The bill, which is set to replace the existing 1968 law, will be introduced in the ongoing Budget Session of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly.
Chhattisgarh Cabinet approves stringent Freedom of Religion Bill 2026 to curb illegal conversions
Key provisions:
7–10 years jail for conversions via force, fraud, inducement or misrepresentation
Up to life imprisonment for mass conversions Harsher penalties (up to 20 years)…
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The new legislation comes as part of the state government’s broader initiative to safeguard citizens’ rights and prevent exploitation under the guise of religion. Officials highlighted that the bill is designed to uphold the fundamental right to freely practice religion, while simultaneously ensuring that conversions are voluntary, informed, and free from coercion, fraud, or inducement.
Under the provisions of the bill, any individual found guilty of converting another person through force, misrepresentation, inducement, or fraud can face 7–10 years of rigorous imprisonment, along with substantial fines. The law further escalates penalties for mass conversions, which could lead to life imprisonment, reflecting the government’s commitment to maintaining social stability and protecting community interests.
Recognising the vulnerability of certain groups, the bill imposes harsher punishments, up to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment, if the illegal conversion involves women, minors, or members of the Scheduled Castes (SC) and the Scheduled Tribes (ST). By doing so, the legislation strengthens protection for the most defenceless sections of society and acts as a deterrent against exploitative practices.
The Chhattisgarh government has emphasised that the bill is not intended to interfere with genuine religious practices. Instead, it seeks to curb unethical and coercive methods that have, in some cases, led to social tension and unrest. State leaders pointed out that the legislation aligns with similar laws in other states, reflecting a nationwide effort to ensure that religious freedom remains voluntary and unmanipulated.
Religious organisations and social groups advocating for community protection have welcomed the move. They noted that the bill reinforces the principles of ethical conversion, protects vulnerable citizens, and promotes harmony among diverse communities. Legal experts supportive of the government’s initiative have also stated that the law fills gaps in the 1968 legislation, providing clearer definitions and stricter penalties to prevent misuse.
By introducing the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026, the Chhattisgarh government is sending a strong message that illegal and coercive conversions will not be tolerated. The law not only safeguards individual rights but also promotes social cohesion, transparency, and accountability in religious practices. The bill is expected to be tabled in the Legislative Assembly during the current session, after which it will undergo detailed discussion before becoming law.
