Supreme Court Issues Notice on Anti-Conversion Laws
The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Central government and several states after a church body challenged the validity of anti-conversion laws enacted across multiple states. The court has sought responses from the authorities on the constitutional validity of these statutes.
Petition Raises Constitutional Concerns
The petition argues that the anti-conversion laws impose prior permission requirements and criminal provisions that could curtail voluntary religious conversion. It contends that such measures violate fundamental rights, including freedom of conscience and the right to practise and propagate religion, along with protections related to personal liberty and privacy.
Court to Hear Linked Challenges
The Supreme Court indicated that the matter would be heard alongside other pending petitions raising similar issues. Notices have been issued to the Centre and several state governments to file their replies. The court will examine whether the laws meet constitutional standards and whether any interim relief is warranted while the challenge is adjudicated.
The case has renewed debate around religious freedom, state regulation, and safeguards against coercion, with the court expected to set timelines for further hearings after receiving responses.
