News for 'religious conversion india'

Chhattisgarh Introduces Bill to Prevent Religious Conversions by Force

Chhattisgarh Introduces Bill to Prevent Religious Conversions by Force

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

The Chhattisgarh government has introduced a bill aimed at preventing religious conversions through force, inducement, or misrepresentation, sparking opposition and debate in the state assembly.

British OCI cardholder booked for conversion attempts in Pune

British OCI cardholder booked for conversion attempts in Pune

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

An Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder from the UK has been booked by Pune Police for allegedly attempting to induce people to convert to Christianity. The individual is accused of using religious gatherings to spread misconceptions about Hindu traditions and make superstitious claims to attract followers, violating the Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025 and the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026.

AIMIM corporator held for sheltering TCS conversion case accused Nida Khan

AIMIM corporator held for sheltering TCS conversion case accused Nida Khan

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Nashik police have arrested an AIMIM corporator, Mateen Patel, for allegedly providing shelter to an accused, Nida Khan, in the ongoing TCS "sexual harassment and religious conversion" case. Patel's arrest is part of a larger investigation into nine cases related to alleged exploitation and forceful conversion at a TCS branch.

Religious freedom on downward trajectory in India: US body

Religious freedom on downward trajectory in India: US body

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

A bipartisan US body claimed that religious freedom conditions in India remained on the downward trajectory in 2026, citing restrictions on activities of NGOs, censorship and transnational repression.

Forced religious conversion is a serious issue: SC

Forced religious conversion is a serious issue: SC

Rediff.com5 Dec 2022

Forced religious conversion may pose a danger to national security and impinge on the religious freedom of citizens, the top court had said recently and asked the Centre to step in and make sincere efforts to tackle the "very serious" issue.

Suvendu plans stringent anti-conversion law, implementation of UCC in Bengal

Suvendu plans stringent anti-conversion law, implementation of UCC in Bengal

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced plans to enact a stringent law against religious conversion and implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state. He linked these measures to strengthening national security and preserving Bengal's cultural identity, citing concerns over infiltration and demographic changes. Adhikari also highlighted efforts in border security, distinguished between illegal immigrants and CAA refugees, and paid tribute to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.

Couple Garlands With Shoes Over Land Dispute, Conversion Rumours

Couple Garlands With Shoes Over Land Dispute, Conversion Rumours

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

A couple in Uttar Pradesh were allegedly humiliated and forced to wear garlands made of shoes following a family dispute over land and rumours of religious conversion. Police have denied the conversion allegations, stating the issue is related to a land dispute.

Forced religious conversions affect nation's security, freedom of faith: SC

Forced religious conversions affect nation's security, freedom of faith: SC

Rediff.com14 Nov 2022

Terming forced religious conversion a "very serious" issue, the Supreme Court on Monday asked the Centre to step in and make sincere efforts to check the practice.

SC issues notice to Centre on plea against forced religious conversions

SC issues notice to Centre on plea against forced religious conversions

Rediff.com23 Sep 2022

The Supreme Court on Friday sought response from the Centre and others on a plea seeking direction to take stringent steps to control fraudulent religious conversion by "intimidation" and through "gifts and monetary benefits".

SC upholds loss of SC status upon conversion to...

SC upholds loss of SC status upon conversion to...

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court of India has dismissed a review petition challenging its earlier verdict that a person from a Scheduled Caste (SC) community loses their SC status upon converting to a religion other than Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism, effective from the moment of conversion.

How AIMIM Corporator Sheltered TCS Employee Accused Of Conversion

How AIMIM Corporator Sheltered TCS Employee Accused Of Conversion

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Nida Khan, a TCS employee accused of religious conversion and sexual harassment, has been arrested in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Police allege an AIMIM corporator provided her shelter. The arrest has sparked political reactions and renewed focus on workplace harassment prevention.

ED searches Jaisalmer premises over Belgian funds, proselytisation

ED searches Jaisalmer premises over Belgian funds, proselytisation

Rediff.com16 hours ago

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, investigating the alleged misuse of Rs 5.10 crore in foreign donations from a non-FCRA registered Belgian entity for proselytisation activities. Two local residents are accused of receiving funds without proper registration, disguising them as educational or cultural services, and using them to influence vulnerable communities.

VHP bars Muslims from garba, dandiya; issues Aadhaar, tilak guidelines

VHP bars Muslims from garba, dandiya; issues Aadhaar, tilak guidelines

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has announced that Muslims will be barred from participating in 'garba' and 'dandiya' events during the upcoming Navratri festival in Maharashtra. The organisation has also issued guidelines for organisers, including checking Aadhaar cards and applying 'tilak' to verify Hindu identity, citing the religious nature of the festival.

Anti-religious conversion bill passed in Rajasthan

Anti-religious conversion bill passed in Rajasthan

Rediff.com20 Mar 2008

The Rajasthan Dharma Swatantraya Bill, 2008, reintroduced by Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje last week, prohibits conversion by use of force, allurement or fradulent means. It was passed by voice vote, even as Congress, Communist Party of India-Marxist and Lok Janshakti Party Legislative Assembly members demanded that it be referred to a select committee.

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Ministry of Home Affairs informed a Joint Committee of Parliament that the number of active NGOs registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act has halved over the last decade, even as foreign funds received by them have significantly increased. Christian associations received the largest share of these funds in 2024-25. The report comes amidst discussions on a contentious FCRA amendment bill aimed at tighter government oversight.

SIT Submits Second Chargesheet In TCS Conversion Case

SIT Submits Second Chargesheet In TCS Conversion Case

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the TCS sexual harassment-forced conversion case filed its second chargesheet in a Nashik court on Thursday. The chargesheet pertains to eight FIRs registered at Mumbai Naka police station here under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita provisions against several individuals.

Maharashtra minister seeks probe into AIMIM's role in TCS case

Maharashtra minister seeks probe into AIMIM's role in TCS case

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Maharashtra minister Sanjay Shirsat has called for a police investigation into the alleged involvement of AIMIM and its ex-MP Imtiaz Jaleel in the Nashik TCS case, following the arrest of accused Nida Khan. Shirsat alleges AIMIM is encouraging religious conversions and that Khan is part of a larger network.

National churches body moves SC against anti-conversion law in 12 states

National churches body moves SC against anti-conversion law in 12 states

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Centre and 12 states on a PIL challenging the validity of their anti-conversion laws. The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) filed the PIL, seeking a stay on the operation of these laws.

Infiltration, conversion cause population imbalance: Bhagwat

Infiltration, conversion cause population imbalance: Bhagwat

Rediff.com8 Feb 2026

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed concerns about population imbalance, citing religious conversion, infiltration, and low birth rates as key factors. He advocated for 'ghar wapasi' and vigilance against infiltrators, while also emphasizing the importance of family and employment.

SC to hear pleas seeking stay on anti-conversion laws in Dec

SC to hear pleas seeking stay on anti-conversion laws in Dec

Rediff.com11 Nov 2025

The Supreme Court has declined to urgently hear pleas seeking a stay on anti-conversion laws enacted by several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. The matter is now scheduled for hearing in December.

Should polygamy be declared unconstitutional?: SC asks govt

Should polygamy be declared unconstitutional?: SC asks govt

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has sought the Centre's response on a petition challenging the constitutional validity of polygamy among Muslims, arguing it violates fundamental rights and creates legal asymmetry by exempting Muslim men from bigamy laws applicable to other citizens.

Worship Act doesn't stop land acquisition for public projects: HC

Worship Act doesn't stop land acquisition for public projects: HC

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

The Allahabad High Court has ruled that the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, prohibits only the conversion of religious character but does not prevent the state from acquiring such properties for secular and public purposes. This observation came while dismissing a petition challenging the widening and beautification of the Dalmandi area in Varanasi for the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dham corridor, which involved the proposed demolition of six ancient mosques.

Nepal's Hindu Rashtra Debate

Nepal's Hindu Rashtra Debate

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Nepal's Hindu groups have sought an all-party discussion on restoring Hindu-nation status within three months.

Mohan Bhagwat: 'If any Hindu thinks there should be no Muslim in Bharat...'

Mohan Bhagwat: 'If any Hindu thinks there should be no Muslim in Bharat...'

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated that a true Hindu believes in the unity of humanity and that all religious paths lead to the same goal, asserting that 'if any Hindu thinks that there should be no Muslim in Bharat, he will not remain Hindu'.

VHP Appeals To UN For Religious Minorities' Protection In Pakistan, Bangladesh

VHP Appeals To UN For Religious Minorities' Protection In Pakistan, Bangladesh

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has appealed to the United Nations to intervene on behalf of religious minorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh, citing human rights violations.

TCS Employee Accused Of Harassment Seeks Anticipatory Bail

TCS Employee Accused Of Harassment Seeks Anticipatory Bail

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

A female employee of TCS in Nashik, accused of religious conversion and sexual harassment of women colleagues, has applied for anticipatory bail, citing her pregnancy. Police are investigating the allegations, and TCS has launched an internal probe.

Supreme Court agrees to hear plea against Rajasthan's anti-conversion law

Supreme Court agrees to hear plea against Rajasthan's anti-conversion law

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea challenging the validity of the Rajasthan Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2025, potentially impacting religious freedom and state legislation.

In defence of religious conversion

In defence of religious conversion

Rediff.com12 Dec 2014

'Banning conversion would harm Hinduism by taking away the need for reform.'

'China's Biggest Threat Is Not America, But The Dalai Lama'

'China's Biggest Threat Is Not America, But The Dalai Lama'

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

'I know China will implode. It is scientifically impossible for China to control a nation through the barrel of a gun.'

Punjab CM Accuses Centre of 'VIP Treatment' to Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi

Punjab CM Accuses Centre of 'VIP Treatment' to Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the central government of providing 'VIP treatment' to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, criticising perceived double standards in dealing with crime.

TCS case key accused Nida Khan sent to police custody till May 11

TCS case key accused Nida Khan sent to police custody till May 11

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Nida Khan, a TCS employee accused of religious conversion and sexual harassment, has been arrested in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. An AIMIM corporator is alleged to have provided her shelter. The arrest has sparked political reactions and renewed focus on workplace harassment prevention.

Can A Couple With Different Political Views Have A Healthy Relationship?

Can A Couple With Different Political Views Have A Healthy Relationship?

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

With political divisions dominating conversations, can couples with opposing views stay together?

Bombay High Court Slams FRRO for Obstructing US Citizen's Travel Despite Court Order

Bombay High Court Slams FRRO for Obstructing US Citizen's Travel Despite Court Order

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The Bombay High Court has criticised the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) for failing to process the exit permit of a US national facing religious conversion charges, despite a court order allowing him to travel.

Punjab CM Accuses Centre of Aiding Gangster Bishnoi

Punjab CM Accuses Centre of Aiding Gangster Bishnoi

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the central government of providing special treatment to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is accused in the Sidhu Moosewala murder case. Mann's criticism comes after Union Minister Amit Shah spoke about gang activities in Punjab.

Constitution doesn't support forced or fraudulent conversion: HC

Constitution doesn't support forced or fraudulent conversion: HC

Rediff.com19 May 2025

Justice Vinod Diwaker made the observation while rejecting a plea to cancel an FIR against four people accused under the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Act, 2021.

'Vague and broad': SC seeks UP's response to plea against conversion law

'Vague and broad': SC seeks UP's response to plea against conversion law

Rediff.com16 Jul 2025

The Supreme Court has sought the Uttar Pradesh government's response on a plea challenging certain provisions of the 2024 amended UP law on unlawful religious conversion, citing concerns about free speech and religious propagation.

Chhattisgarh to bring stringent law to prevent tribal conversion

Chhattisgarh to bring stringent law to prevent tribal conversion

Rediff.com4 May 2025

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has announced that his government will introduce a new stringent law to prevent religious conversion of tribal people, and possibly others. He also advocated for the delisting of tribals, removing them from the Scheduled Tribe category if they convert to another religion, saying it will prevent proselytisation.

ED raids in Delhi, UP over alleged religious conversion

ED raids in Delhi, UP over alleged religious conversion

Rediff.com3 Jul 2021

The officials said several "incriminating" documents have been seized during the searches, which reveal the "large-scale conversion" allegedly carried out by Umar Gautam and his organisations across India.

Wrong to claim one religion as only true religion: HC

Wrong to claim one religion as only true religion: HC

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The Allahabad High Court has ruled that claiming a particular religion is the 'only true religion' is inappropriate in a secular country like India and could violate laws against disparaging other faiths. The court dismissed a petition filed by a Reverend Father, stating that such claims could fall under Section 295A of the IPC, which addresses acts intended to outrage religious feelings.

The Kerala Story 2 Trailer Sparks Debate with Its Alarming Message

The Kerala Story 2 Trailer Sparks Debate with Its Alarming Message

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

The trailer of The Kerala Story 2 has triggered widespread conversation with its intense and controversial messaging of religious conversion. Read reactions and key takeaways from the debate.