BJP Rajya Sabha MP Ghanshyam Tiwari recently spoke out in support of the Prevention of Illegal Conversion Act, a proposed anti-conversion law in Rajasthan. Addressing concerns regarding religious conversion practices, Tiwari emphasized that while every individual has the right to adopt and propagate their own method of worship, the law is necessary to prevent fraudulent conversions driven by greed or false promises.
“Every person has the right to freely adopt their method of worship and propagate it. However, some people exploit this freedom by using deceitful means such as promising marriage, cures for illness, or other incentives to convert others,” Tiwari remarked. He pointed out that many states across India have already enacted similar laws to address such practices and safeguard individuals from coercion and manipulation.
Tiwari also recalled the history of the anti-conversion bill in Rajasthan, stating that when the BJP government first introduced the law, it was rejected by the then-Governor, who referred it to the President for further consideration. Now, the current state government is bringing back the bill, titled the Prevention of Illegal Conversion Act 2000, which aims to regulate religious conversions and prevent fraudulent practices.
The proposed law is designed to curb illegal conversions by establishing strict regulations and penalties for those found guilty of coercing or luring people into changing their religion under false pretenses. Supporters of the bill argue that it is a necessary step to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and ensure religious freedom is upheld in its true sense.
The bill is expected to spark ongoing debates, with proponents arguing it will strengthen religious harmony and protect individuals from unethical practices, while critics may view it as a potential infringement on personal freedoms. As the state government moves forward with the new legislation, all eyes will be on the outcome of these legal proceedings and the potential impact on Rajasthan’s social fabric.
