Maharashtra becomes the 13th Indian state to enforce an anti-conversion law

The current state of affairs in India is becoming increasingly hostile for Christians. The state wants to regulate religious matters to prevent unlawful conversion, fraud, coercion, allurement, or forced conversion. Currently, interfaith marriages are often referred to as Love Jihad. Therefore, the ruling party (Hindu nationalist) wants to enforce the law. An individual and the priest must give written notice to the District Magistrate 60 days before conversion. That notice must include identity details, Tax details, a photo, and the date & time of the ceremony. This law doesn’t prohibit voluntary conversions or interfaith marriages, as claimed. 

The opposition party and civil society opposed this legislation, since it interferes with citizens’ constitutional right to freedom of religion. The penalty is stronger in the case of women, children, Scheduled Castes (Dalits), or scheduled tribes. Violators may face one to ten years of imprisonment. 

However, the majority of people coming to Jesus Christ and converting to the Christian faith are Scheduled Castes (Dalits) or scheduled tribes (belonging to the lowest social stratum). They have found something unique in the Gospel that they have never experienced. They have come to know Jesus and real hope. Interestingly, these people are counted as Hindu for political reasons, etc. The Loss of votes and religion eventually leads to the loss of political power. Therefore, the anti-conversion law is a masterstroke to prohibit conversion, even voluntary ones. This is not a mere anti-conversion law but is intended against the expansion of God’s Kingdom.

The details in the notice to the District Magistrate seem to be used against the voluntary person. Further, suspected that the details are handed over to radical Hindu groups who track believers and target places of worship across India. The church requests believers to fill out a self-declaration form. The churches are concerned about mob attacks that vandalise the church during worship services, beat people and disturb the peace. The fear is real in Maharashtra near Mumbai, but we know that God is almighty and He controls everything. 

We hold fast to the promise of Christ in John 16:32-33: Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” 

Please remember us in your Prayers, and pray for: 

  • The protection of churches and ministries across 13 states of India. 
  • Believers to seek the will of God in the current situation. 
  • Perseverance in faith and the promise of God 

Mukesh Kumar

References:
The News Indian Express: Maharashtra’s anti-conversion law: key provisions and concerns. 
The Times of India: Maharashtra’s anti-conversion law is now in force. 
The Hindu: Anti-conversion law, Maharashtra churches seek prayer consent forms from worshippers.