Controversy Over Chhattisgarh's Freedom of Religion Bill: A Test of Constitutional Values

The Chhattisgarh government introduced a controversial bill in the state assembly on Thursday aiming to prevent religious conversions through coercion, fraud, or misrepresentation. Named the Chhattisgarh Dharm Swatantraya Vidheyak, 2026, this legislative proposal has sparked significant debate among political factions.

The bill's introduction was met with strong opposition from the Congress party, which urged for it to be reviewed by a Select Committee for more comprehensive evaluations, including insights from retired judges and bipartisan legislators. The discussion drew on historical perspectives from notable figures like Dr. B R Ambedkar and former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who advocated for social justice and tolerance.

Despite the opposition's call for thorough deliberations, the Chhattisgarh assembly proceeded with the bill, citing its necessity to update existing legal frameworks to prevent conversions through undue influence. The bill, backed by prior state cabinet approval, reflects a growing trend among Indian states to legislate on religious conversions, positioning itself within the broader discourse on constitutional freedoms and public order.