Chhattisgarh Cabinet Clears Draft Freedom of Religion Bill 2026

The Chhattisgarh government has approved the draft of a new anti-religious conversion law titled the “Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026”. The proposal aims to prevent religious conversions carried out through force, inducement, fraud, misrepresentation, or undue influence. The decision was taken during a state Cabinet meeting, paving the way for the Bill to be introduced in the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, which is currently in session.

Objective of the Proposed Legislation

According to the state government, the new legislation seeks to strengthen legal provisions to curb unlawful religious conversions. The Bill is designed to address cases where individuals are allegedly converted through coercion, material inducements, or deceptive practices.

Officials stated that the law aims to ensure that religious conversions occur only through free will and genuine personal choice. The proposed legislation is expected to expand the scope of existing legal provisions and introduce stricter mechanisms to deal with violations.

Focus on Faith Healing Gatherings

Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma has indicated that the proposed law will also address “changai sabhas,” commonly referred to as faith-healing gatherings. According to the state government, some such gatherings have been linked to alleged attempts to influence religious conversion.

Authorities have argued that regulating these activities would help prevent misuse of religious practices for conversion through undue influence or inducement.

Existing Legal Framework in the State

Chhattisgarh already has provisions dealing with religious conversion under the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 1968. However, the state government believes that updated legislation is required to address new challenges and strengthen enforcement mechanisms.

The proposed Bill seeks to replace or significantly revise the earlier law by introducing stricter safeguards and penalties against unlawful conversions.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 1968 regulates religious conversions in the state.
• Several Indian states have enacted laws commonly referred to as anti-conversion or freedom of religion laws.
• These laws typically prohibit conversions through force, fraud, inducement, or misrepresentation.
• Regulation of religious conversions falls under the State List of the Constitution relating to public order and law and order.

Background and Public Debate

Allegations of forced religious conversions have periodically emerged in Chhattisgarh, often leading to tensions between religious groups and social organisations. Clashes between right-wing groups and Christian missionaries have been reported in several areas of the state.

The issue gained national attention last year following the arrest of two nuns from Kerala accused of human trafficking and attempting to convert tribal women. The allegations were later denied by the women involved, and the case triggered protests in Kerala and New Delhi. The proposed legislation is being introduced amid continuing debates over religious freedom, social harmony, and regulation of conversion practices.