Chhattisgarh Aims to Reinforce Religious Freedom with New Bill

The Chhattisgarh government has introduced the Chhattisgarh Dharm Swatantraya Vidheyak, 2026, a bill intended to prevent forced religious conversions. The proposed law strengthens existing regulations by addressing modern inducements and threats, ensuring freedom of religion while aiming to maintain social harmony.

The Chhattisgarh government has taken a significant step in reinforcing religious freedom by introducing the Chhattisgarh Dharm Swatantraya Vidheyak, 2026, in the state assembly on Thursday. The bill, aimed at curbing religious conversions through coercion, was tabled by Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, who also oversees the Home Department.

This legislation seeks to enhance the existing regulations by addressing the modern dimensions of inducement, such as digital and economic lures, as well as direct and indirect threats. Approved by the state cabinet last week, the bill represents an evolution from the 1968 act, incorporating safeguards to prevent social discord while protecting constitutional liberties.

The current legal framework, adopted from Madhya Pradesh in 2000, is set to be expanded upon with this new bill. The government aims to create a structured approach that allows for religious freedom without compromising on social harmony. Discussions on the new bill are expected to follow in the assembly.