CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
The Rajasthan Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Bill, 2025, was introduced in the state Assembly on February 3, 2025, during the Budget Session. The bill aims to combat forced religious conversions in the state and was presented by Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar. It proposes strict penalties for conversions that are carried out unlawfully.
Key Features Of Bill
The bill classifies unlawful conversions as a cognisable and non-bailable offence. Those found guilty may face imprisonment for up to ten years and a fine of Rupees 50,000. The bill specifically targets conversions carried out through fraud, coercion, or misrepresentation. It also requires individuals to notify the District Magistrate at least sixty days before attempting any religious conversion.
Penalties For Violations
The bill outlines varying penalties based on the nature of the offence:
For general unlawful conversions, imprisonment may range from one to five years, with a fine of up to Rupees 15,000.
Conversions involving minors, women, or individuals from Scheduled Castes or Scheduled Tribes may result in a penalty of two to ten years in prison and a fine of up to Rupees 25,000.
Mass conversions attract more severe penalties, including imprisonment of three to ten years and a fine of Rupees 50,000.
Background And Justification
The introduction of the bill follows concerns about an increase in forced conversions, commonly referred to by critics as "love jihad." This term is used by the BJP and its supporters to describe instances where Muslim men allegedly marry Hindu women to convert them. The state government argues that this legislation is necessary to protect vulnerable individuals from coercion and deception.
Opposition To Bill
While the Rajasthan Cabinet approved the bill in November 2024, it has been met with opposition from the Congress party. Critics argue that the bill is part of a broader effort to sow societal divisions. They suggest that the government should focus on other pressing issues rather than targeting religious conversions.
Compensation For Victims
Under the bill, courts may award compensation to victims of unlawful conversions, with a maximum amount of Rupees 5 lakh. This provision is intended to provide justice to those affected by coercive conversions. Repeat offenders may face double the penalties, underscoring the bill’s intent to deter such activities.
Impact On Secularism
The bill asserts that while religious freedom is guaranteed by the Constitution, it does not extend to collective proselytisation. The legislation aims to uphold the spirit of secularism in India while addressing the challenges related to religious conversions. The government contends that the law is essential for maintaining social harmony in Rajasthan.
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