Anti-Conversion Law: Critical Analysis in India

Abstract

India is a secular state with detailed constitutional provisions for religious rights. Article 25 provides for freedom of conscience and the right to freely profess practise and propagate religion. Article 19 further protects freedom of speech, expression and association. Article 51 imposes a positive duty on citizens to promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood transcending religious boundaries. The ongoing discrimination against Dalits and tribal forms the context for increasing political animosity towards religious conversions in India. This research paper examines all religious groups; the religiously sanctioned caste system is associated primarily with Hinduism. It is perceived by Hindu nationalist or extremist groups, known collectively as the Sangh Parivar, to be proper to Indian society, and therefore the embracement of other religions by Dalits and ‘lower’ castes to escape caste discrimination attracts considerable opposition. India’s Christian population, in particular, is drawn primarily from among the Dalits and ‘lower’ castes. This study relates to conversion generates and fosters a rift in the society and leads a stable society into a disintegrated society. It disturbs the social structure and leads to a clash of cultures. Conversions arouse resentment and indignation and help to the flames of communal frenzy and passion creating problems of Law and Order.