Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act to Take Effect on August 28

Mumbai: Maharashtra’s new Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, is set to come into force on August 28, after the state government issued the notification bringing the legislation into effect. The law seeks to regulate religious conversions and prevent conversions alleged to be carried out through force, fraud, coercion or inducement.

60-Day Notice for Religious Conversion :

Under the new law, a person intending to convert from one religion to another must provide 60 days’ prior notice to the competent authority. The proposed conversion can also be subject to an inquiry, while a declaration is required after the conversion takes place.

The legislation also provides for strict punishment for unlawful conversions, including imprisonment and fines, with enhanced penalties for repeat offences.

Provision Concerning a Child’s Religion:

One of the most discussed provisions relates to children born from a marriage or relationship that is found to have resulted from an unlawful conversion. The law states that such a child will be deemed to belong to the religion followed by the mother before the marriage or relationship. The provision also addresses the child’s succession and maintenance rights, while custody is generally placed with the mother unless a court decides otherwise.

Debate Over Religious Freedom and Individual Choice:

The implementation of the law has renewed debate over the balance between preventing coercive or fraudulent conversions and protecting an individual’s freedom of religion and personal choice. Supporters argue that stronger legal safeguards are necessary to prevent exploitation and forced conversion, while critics have raised concerns about the impact of prior-notice requirements and state scrutiny on individual religious liberty.

The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act received the President’s assent in July, clearing the way for its implementation through a state notification.

The new legislation is expected to remain a closely watched issue as Maharashtra begins implementing its provisions from August 28, particularly on questions surrounding religious freedom, conversion, marriage and individual autonomy.