Raipur: In the wake of mounting controversy following the arrest of two Keralite nuns, the Chhattisgarh government is gearing up to introduce stricter regulations against religious conversions. The proposed amendment to the existing Religious Freedom Act is expected to be tabled in the upcoming winter session of the State Assembly.
According to state sources, the new amendment will significantly tighten the framework for religious conversions by introducing harsher penalties for what it terms as "forced conversions." A key feature likely to be included in the draft is a mandatory two-month advance notice to the local administration by individuals seeking to convert to another religion. This clause, if enacted, will make conversion processes more rigid and legally monitored.
The proposed legislative overhaul has been strongly linked to recent events that have stirred national attention particularly the arrest of Sister Preethi Mary and Sister Vandana Francis, both from Kerala, who were taken into custody along with a tribal girl named Sukhmai from Narayanpur district. The arrests were based on complaints filed by Bajrang Dal activists, accusing the nuns of forced religious conversion and human trafficking. The Railway Police initially filed the case, which has since been transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
State Home Minister Vijay Sharma recently confirmed that a draft bill is under preparation to amend the Religious Conversion Act. While the exact provisions have not been officially released, insiders say the law will focus on expanding the legal definition of coercion and enhancing surveillance mechanisms on missionary activities.
Despite widespread criticism and calls to quash the case, the state government has maintained a firm stance. It asserted in magistrate, sessions, and NIA courts that the nuns had committed violations, claiming that evidence was available to support the allegations. However, the NIA court granted bail to both nuns under strict conditions, including routine reporting to local authorities.
The controversy has escalated tensions between the state administration and Christian communities. The incident triggered widespread outrage, with many viewing the legal actions as a politically motivated move that targets religious minorities. There is growing concern that the proposed legislative changes could further marginalize missionary work and curtail the rights of individuals to practice and propagate their faith.
As the winter session approaches, all eyes will be on the Chhattisgarh Assembly. The government’s push for stricter conversion laws could set a precedent for similar actions in other states, potentially igniting national debates over religious freedom and minority rights.