The Rajasthan government introduced the Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Bill, 2025 during the Budget Session of the state Assembly on February 3, 2025. The bill, presented by Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar, seeks to curb forced religious conversions in the state by imposing stringent penalties for offenders.

Key Features of the Bill

1. Unlawful Conversion Defined:
   • The bill categorises forced conversion through misrepresentation, coercion, or fraudulent means as a cognisable and non-bailable offence.
   • Offenders may face imprisonment of up to 10 years and a fine of ₹50,000.
2. Mandatory Declaration:
   • Individuals intending to convert must submit a declaration to the District Magistrate 60 days in advance.
3. Penalties:
   • General Violations: 1-5 years of imprisonment with a fine of ₹15,000.
   • Targeted Conversions (Minors, Women, SC/ST): 2-10 years of imprisonment with fines up to ₹25,000.
   • Mass Conversions: 3-10 years of imprisonment and fines of ₹50,000.
4. Compensation for Victims:
   • Courts may award compensation of up to ₹5 lakh to victims of unlawful conversion. Repeat offenders face double penalties, underscoring the law’s deterrent focus.

Background and Justification

The bill was introduced in response to growing concerns over alleged forced conversions, including those referred to as “love jihad.” This term, frequently used by the BJP and its affiliates, describes cases where Muslim men are accused of marrying Hindu women to convert them.

The Rajasthan Cabinet had approved the bill on November 30, 2024, emphasizing its urgency in protecting vulnerable individuals. The government claims the legislation is essential to curb coercive practices and uphold societal harmony.

Criticism and Opposition

The bill has faced strong opposition, particularly from the Congress party, which argues that it is divisive and distracts from more pressing governance issues. Critics assert that the law risks targeting specific communities and could undermine personal freedoms.

Opponents also question whether the government is overreaching in legislating religious conversions, contending that existing laws are sufficient to address coercion.

Secularism and Implications

The government asserts that while religious freedom is protected under the Constitution, collective proselytisation through coercion violates the principle of secularism. By preventing forced conversions, the bill seeks to safeguard individual rights and promote social harmony in Rajasthan.

Supporters argue that the legislation strikes a balance between protecting religious freedom and addressing complexities surrounding conversion practices.

The Rajasthan Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Bill, 2025, remains a contentious piece of legislation. While it aims to deter coercive conversions and ensure justice for victims, its broader implications for secularism and individual freedom are likely to fuel ongoing debate.