Anti-Conversion Laws Pose Challenge to Minority Rights says Robin Christopher

Eluru, December 7, 2024: In an input address to the National Catholic Lawyers Forum of Priests and Religious, Robin Christopher of the Karnataka High Court shed light on the complexities of anti-conversion laws in India. 

Article 25 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to practice, profess, and propagate one's religion, a freedom not found in international law.

The first anti-conversion law was introduced by the Congress government in 1950, which required individuals to simply inform the government of their conversion. However, over the years, a series of laws have been enacted, with some states imposing stricter regulations than others.

In Uttar Pradesh, for instance, the anti-conversion law has been amended to allow anyone to file a complaint, whereas earlier only the aggrieved party could do so. The law also presumes guilt, rather than innocence, and charitable activities can be misconstrued as allurement.

The Freedom of Religion Acts in various states prohibit conversion by force, fraud, or allurement. However, the laws are often vaguely worded, leading to arbitrary enforcement and harassment of minority communities.

Christopher emphasized the need for awareness and vigilance in protecting minority rights. He advised individuals to document everything, seek legal counsel, and invite support from civil society leaders. "In India, the process is the punishment," he cautioned, "so file a counter complaint and be prepared".

By Fr. Suresh Mathew