Prohibition of forced conversion: Karnataka follows UP, Madhya Pradesh
The Karnataka government is ready to implement the Anti-conversion Bill. Earlier, the BJP-ruled states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh had passed compulsory conversion laws. After that, the Karnataka government came out with a similar stand. The law in Karnataka is similar to that in Uttar Pradesh.
The bill provides for up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh for forced conversions. In addition, there are many barriers to legal conversion. The bill will be introduced in the Assembly despite strong opposition from the Christian community and the Opposition. The bill was approved by the Cabinet yesterday.
The bill will be passed in the Legislature and the Legislative Council as the government has a clear majority. But the Congress and the JDS will announce strong protests in the House against the bill. The Cabinet yesterday approved a bill with strict provisions. The move comes amid protests from Christian groups and others. The law is being brought in view of the constant demand of Hindu organizations, including the Lingayat community. The bill provides for up to 10 years in prison for forced conversions.
The Archbishop of Bangalore said he was “deeply disappointed” by the Karnataka government’s decision to pass the Prohibition of Conversion Bill. The archbishop said the government was playing with fire. The archbishop expressed concern that the law could lead to an increase in violence against Christians, dalits and Muslims.
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