On 24 August 2026, the Joint Civil Society opposed the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, raising concerns about its implications for constitutional freedoms, privacy, individual autonomy and social harmony. The statement was issued ahead of the Act’s entry into force on 28 August.
The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026 prohibits religious conversions carried out through force, fraud, coercion or allurement and establishes penalties of up to 10 years’ imprisonment and fines of up to ₹7 lakh (approximately 6,300 EUR). The legislation received Presidential assent on 30 July and came into force on 28 August 2026.
The coalition questioned several provisions, including notification and reporting requirements, third-party complaints, police scrutiny, reversal of the burden of proof and cognisable and non-bailable offences. It argued that these measures, together with the broad definition of “allurement”, could affect personal decisions concerning faith and relationships and expose legitimate charitable, educational and religious activities to greater scrutiny. It also warned of potential consequences for women, young adults, Dalits and Adivasis.
The statement referred to two FIRs in Pune in which provisions of the Act were reportedly invoked before its commencement date and subsequently removed. The coalition called for implementation to be suspended pending the Supreme Court’s consideration of constitutional challenges to similar laws in other states.
These provisions could create legal uncertainty for civil society and faith-based organisations and potentially discourage some legitimate activities. They also raise broader concerns about freedom of religion, privacy and individual autonomy. At the same time, the coordinated response shows that civil society continues to organise and advocate around constitutional rights.