Why in News?
President Droupadi Murmu granted formal assent to the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026 on July 31, 2026, completing the final constitutional step for the law to come into effect.
What does the Act provide?
The Act aims to prohibit religious conversions done through coercion, fraud, allurement, misrepresentation, or promise of marriage. Anyone intending to convert must give a 60-day prior notice to the District Magistrate.
Complaints against forced conversion can be filed by parents, siblings, or other blood relatives of the convert. The burden of proof that the conversion was voluntary lies on the person performing the ceremony.
Violations can lead to imprisonment of up to 7 years, and repeat offenders face up to 10 years in jail. The Bill was passed by both houses of the Maharashtra legislature during the 2026 Budget Session before being sent to the Governor.
Exam Connect
Article 201 → Deals with the Governor reserving a State Bill for the President's consideration
Maharashtra Legislature → Bicameral: Vidhan Sabha and Vidhan Parishad