Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Law Gets Governor’s Nod, Tough Penalties for Illegal Conversions

April 9, 2026 : In a significant legislative development, Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka has approved the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Bill, paving the way for it to become law. The legislation will come into force once it is officially published in the state gazette.

The bill, which was passed in the previous session of the state legislative assembly, introduces strict measures aimed at curbing unlawful religious conversions. Under the new law, any individual intending to convert must first submit an application to a designated authority, ensuring prior scrutiny and approval.

The legislation prescribes stringent penalties for violations. Individuals found guilty of illegal religious conversion can face imprisonment ranging from seven to ten years, along with a fine of ₹5 lakh. The punishment becomes more severe in cases involving vulnerable groups, including minors, women, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, and tribal communities. In such cases, offenders may face imprisonment between ten and twenty years and a fine of ₹10 lakh.

The law also addresses mass conversion, treating it as a grave offence. Those convicted in such cases can face a minimum of ten years’ imprisonment, which may extend to life, along with a fine that can go up to ₹25 lakh.

The move signals the state government’s intent to enforce tighter regulatory oversight on religious conversions, with a focus on preventing coercion and unlawful practices.