'Punishment up to life term': Chhattisgarh passes new Freedom of Religion Bill, Pg7

Key Highlights:

• The Chhattisgarh Assembly passed the Chhattisgarh Dharm Swatantraya Vidheyak, 2026 (Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026) to prevent illegal religious conversions.
• The Bill mandates individuals converting religions to submit a declaration to the District Magistrate.
• Converting to one's ancestral religion is exempt from the Bill's definition of conversion.
• Mass conversion (two or more people) can result in a minimum 10-year imprisonment, potentially extending to life, and a fine of at least Rs 25 lakh.
• Victims of illegal conversion are entitled to compensation up to Rs 10 lakh.
• Trials under this Bill will be conducted in a special court or sessions court and must be completed within six months of the chargesheet filing.

Detailed Insights:

• The Bill requires individuals intending to convert to notify the District Magistrate, who will then publicize the details on the official website, Tehsildar, Gram Panchayat, and local police station offices.
• Authorities are empowered to verify conversions, investigate complaints, and summon records, with objections allowed within 30 days, followed by an inquiry and order.
• Marriages do not automatically constitute religious conversion; conversions solely for marriage or not following the Bill's provisions are deemed illegal.
• Priests or clerics performing conversions must submit a declaration of the convert's intention to the competent authority.
• The state government can withdraw financial assistance to individuals violating the Bill.
• The legislation restricts foreign or domestic funds accepted to violate the Bill's provisions.
• Offences are cognisable and non-bailable, investigated by a police sub-inspector.
• Enhanced penalties apply if the victim is a minor, of unsound mind, a woman, or belongs to OBC, SC, or ST communities.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Religious Conversion: The act of changing one's religious beliefs or affiliation from one religion to another.
• Mass Conversion: The conversion of two or more persons in a single event, as defined within the context of the Bill.
• Competent Authority: The District Magistrate or an officer authorized by them, responsible for overseeing the conversion process.