Karnataka: Siddaramaiah Cabinet Repeals Anti-Conversion Law Brought By Previous BJP Govt

The 'Karnataka Protection of Rights to Freedom of Religion Bill 2022' was passed by previous BJP government in September last year.

Siddaramaiah led Karnataka Cabinet decided to repeal anti-conversion law

Siddaramaiah led Karnataka cabinet on Thursday decided to repeal the anti-conversion law that was brought by the previous Bharatiya Janata Party dispensation. In September last year, Karnataka Assembly had passed the 'Karnataka Protection of Rights to Freedom of Religion Bill 2022' which was moved by the then home minister Araga Jnanendra. The Congress had then opposed the bill saying "the intention was not right" and that "it is politically motivated, illegal and is unconstitutional." The party had back then said it would challenge the bill in Courts. 

The anti-conversion law, which was opposed by a section of Christian community leaders among others, provides for protection of right to freedom of religion and prohibition of unlawful conversion from one religion to another by misrepresentation, force, undue influence, coercion, allurement or by any fraudulent means.

It proposed imprisonment from three to five years with a fine of Rs 25,000, while for violation of provisions with respect to minors, women, SC/ST, the offenders will face imprisonment from three to ten years and a fine of not less than Rs 50,000 and the offence under the act is non-bailable and cognisable.

It also stated that any marriage which has happened for the sole purpose of unlawful conversion or vice-versa by the man of one religion with the woman of another, either by converting himself before or after marriage or by converting the woman before or after marriage, shall be declared as null and void by the family court.

The act mandated that persons who wish to convert to another faith shall give a declaration in a prescribed format at least 30 days in advance to the District Magistrate or the Additional District Magistrate specially authorised by the District Magistrate in this regard of his residing district or place of birth within the state.