Maharashtra churches ask worshippers to sign declaration of free will amid new conversion law

Churches in India's Maharashtra state have begun asking worshippers to sign declarations confirming they are attending prayer services of their own free will, following the implementation of a new anti-conversion law. The practice, which started in late August, involves visitors writing their names, sometimes adding an ID card number, and signing a statement that they were not forced or enticed to attend. These forms, which have no official standing, are kept by churches as a precaution against potential accusations of forced conversion.

The new law prohibits religious conversions achieved through force, fraud, coercion, or inducement, and requires individuals seeking to convert voluntarily to notify authorities in advance. Violators face prison sentences of up to seven years, with repeat offenses carrying a 10-year sentence. The Maharashtra government states the law aims to protect vulnerable individuals from being deceived into changing their religion.

However, critics contend that the law's broad definitions and severe penalties could lead to undue state and police interference in deeply personal decisions. While the law applies to all religions, minority communities, particularly Christians, are experiencing heightened anxiety. The measures come amid ongoing tensions fueled by allegations from right-wing groups that religious conversions are being coerced or induced through benefits like financial aid, education, or marriage promises.

Devdan Tribhuvan, who provides legal aid to Christians in the Mumbai area, has observed increased concern among people about their freedom to practice their faith. He notes instances of strangers questioning worshippers in churches about their presence and motivations. Retired Bombay High Court judge Abhay Thipsay has criticized the vagueness of terms like "allurement" within the law, suggesting that almost any benefit could be construed as inducement. He questions why a conscious choice to convert for a benefit should be considered wrong.

The law also permits relatives to file complaints about alleged unlawful conversions, shifting the burden of proof to the accused. Lawyers like Lara Jesani fear this provision could be exploited to target interfaith couples, even when conversion is not intended. Maharashtra minister Pankaj Bhoyar, however, stated that the law does not infringe upon the right to change religion and that the notification requirement aims to ensure voluntariness.