An even harsher anti-conversion statute is taking effect in India’s Chhattisgarh state, where Christians already experience significant persecution.
In reporting on the new statute, Morning Star News noted the concern of Christian leaders who point out that the previous anti-conversion measure was being used to make false accusations against Christians.
RELATED: Check out more stories on the persecuted church.
Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Bill 2026, which the state governor signed April 7, imposes “penalties that rank among the harshest for forced or fraudulent religious conversion in India,” Morning Star reported. The legislation, which replaces a measure from 1968, exempts conversion or return to Hinduism.
Offenses are punishable with a fine and up to 10 years in prison, but up to 20 years if the person converted is from certain protected classes, such as a minor, woman or member of the Scheduled Caste.
Repeat offenses, as well as the conversion of two or more people at one time, could result in a life sentence.
Any person wanting to convert to another religion must first submit an application to a government authority. Entities conducting “conversion” work must also register, Morning Star noted.
World Watch
India ranks No. 12 on Open Doors’ 2026 World Watch List of the 50 places most difficult to be a Christian.
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