Politics · India Bureau
Maharashtra churches implement consent forms amid anti-conversion law concerns
Churches in Maharashtra are introducing written declaration forms for worshippers as a precautionary measure under the state's anti-conversion legislation. The forms, retained by church officials, are intended to document voluntary participation in religious activities.
LSN India ·
Religious institutions across Maharashtra have begun implementing a protective mechanism in response to the state's anti-conversion law, requiring worshippers to complete written consent forms before attending services. The declaration documents, filed in church offices, serve as evidence of voluntary participation in religious activities should authorities seek clarification.
Church officials describe the initiative as a "self-safety" measure designed to establish a clear record of congregants' willful involvement in worship. The forms are retained by church management and may be produced to government or police authorities if requested during investigations into alleged conversion activities.
The move reflects growing apprehension within religious communities regarding the application of Maharashtra's anti-conversion legislation. The state's Freedom of Religion Act stipulates strict provisions governing religious conversions, requiring prior permission from district authorities and detailed documentation of conversion cases.
Church leaders contend that maintaining detailed records of worshipper participation provides a defensive safeguard against potential legal complications. By documenting that attendees are present of their own volition, religious organizations aim to demonstrate compliance with statutory requirements and protect themselves from accusations of coerced conversion.
The practice underscores the practical challenges facing minority religious communities operating under India's various state-level anti-conversion laws, which have become increasingly stringent across several states in recent years.