What is the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill? | Explained

The Maharashtra government passed the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026, which aims to prohibit unlawful religious conversions. The bill mandates a 60-day notice period for conversion and requires police registration of complaints related to forced conversions. Civil society organizations have expressed concerns about the bill's potential impact on personal liberty and its constitutionality. The bill has been supported by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who stated that it is necessary to address increasing cases of forcible religious conversions. The bill has also been criticized for potentially targeting minority communities and raising administrative concerns regarding the lack of a certification system for religions.