In a significant move, the Karnataka Cabinet has made a decision to repeal the anti-conversion law that was previously introduced by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government. The law, which was passed by the Legislative Assembly in 2022, aimed to restrict conversions from one religion to another through what the BJP perceived as fraudulent means.
Under the provisions of the law, individuals engaging in conversion activities by using misrepresentation, force, undue influence, coercion, or allurement were deemed guilty and subjected to a minimum punishment of three to five years in prison, along with a minimum fine of Rs 25,000.
The decision to repeal this law marks a substantial shift in the state’s approach towards religious conversions. The move is expected to be viewed as a major step towards ensuring freedom of religion and upholding individual rights in Karnataka.
While the details of the Cabinet’s decision are yet to be fully disclosed, the move is likely to draw attention and spark debates among various religious and political groups. Critics of the anti-conversion law argue that it curtailed the freedom of individuals to practice their faith and violated their fundamental rights.
More details awaited.
