Sun Dec 01 04:42:13 UTC 2024: ## Rajasthan Cabinet Approves Strict Anti-Conversion Bill

**Jaipur, Rajasthan –** The Rajasthan state cabinet has approved a stringent new anti-conversion bill aimed at curbing what it terms “forced religious conversions.” The bill, titled “The Rajasthan Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Bill-2024,” will be presented to the state legislature during the upcoming session.

Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa stated that the bill prescribes penalties of one to five years imprisonment for those found guilty of forced conversions. He explained that the legislation was drafted after analyzing similar laws in other states and aims to address instances where individuals are allegedly coerced or misled into religious conversion.

Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma emphasized that the bill prohibits conversions achieved through fraud, force, undue influence, or misleading information. Furthermore, marriages conducted primarily for the purpose of religious conversion will be rendered invalid by family courts under the proposed law.

Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel hailed the cabinet’s decision, asserting that the bill represents a significant step towards development, public welfare, and prosperity in Rajasthan. The Chief Minister, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), reiterated the state government’s commitment to stopping illegal religious conversions and invited public participation in building a “Rising Rajasthan” characterized by social harmony and cultural upliftment. The bill’s passage through the legislature is now anticipated.

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