New law and the challenge
Maharashtra has recently brought the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026 into force. The law treats conversions carried out through coercion, fraud, inducement, misrepresentation or marriage as offences.
Prior notice requirement
Under Section 6, individuals intending to convert are required to give a notice 60 days in advance.
Petition before the High Court
A 70-year-old Muslim religious preacher from Thane filed a petition in the Bombay High Court challenging the law. His counsel argued that the statute curbs the freedom to propagate religion guaranteed under Article 25 of the Constitution.
Court’s observation and outcome
A bench comprising Chief Justice Mahesh C. Tripathi and Justice Advait Sethna observed that the law was enacted to protect the secular character of society and prevent conversions through compulsion. The judges noted that while individuals have full freedom to change their religion, conversion solely for the purpose of marriage cannot be permitted. Following the observation, the petition was withdrawn.
