Rajasthan Passes Harsh Anti-Conversion Law Amid Rising Criticism

Rajasthan Passes Harsh Anti-Conversion Law Amid Rising Criticism
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The state assembly of Rajasthan, governed by India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has passed a controversial law criminalizing religious conversion with what observers describe as some of the harshest penalties worldwide. The legislation includes provisions for life imprisonment, fines of up to $100 million, and property confiscation, sparking strong domestic and international criticism.

Minority communities, particularly Muslims and Christians, along with civil society groups, have voiced deep concern over the law’s impact on freedom of belief and social coexistence. Analysts warn it could be used to intimidate religious minorities, restrict interfaith marriages, and constrain charitable activities run by faith-based organizations.

Legal experts and human rights advocates argue the measure violates India’s constitution, which guarantees religious freedom, and contravenes international obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Critics emphasize that beyond its punitive measures, the law signals a political drive by the BJP to reinforce Hindu nationalist identity at the expense of pluralism.

The legislation follows similar measures introduced in other Indian states under the pretext of preventing forced conversions, though opponents say such policies are designed to consolidate nationalist support. Rights groups caution the law risks eroding India’s secular democracy and marginalizing minority communities, with potential long-term consequences for social stability.