President Assents to Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act

# President Assents to Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act ### 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