Tensions flared in Maharashtra’s legislative assembly as the Freedom of Religion Bill sparked a fiery showdown. Samajwadi Party MLA Rais Sheikh vehemently opposed the measure on Monday, labeling it a threat to fundamental rights under Article 25 of the Constitution.
‘Drafted without adequate evidence or openness, this bill can’t stand,’ Sheikh asserted. He called for its referral to a Joint Select Committee and demanded extensive public input, decrying any hasty passage on such a pivotal religious freedom matter.
His stance resonated online, where he tweeted: ‘Stood against the Religion Freedom Bill in assembly. Limits Article 25, shifts proof burden to people. Lacks data—needs Joint Select Committee and public hearings.’
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the initiative robustly, insisting it’s not aimed at any faith but solely at curbing conversions driven by force, trickery, or allurement. Citing precedents in over a dozen states including Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Rajasthan, he framed it as essential protection.
‘Article 25 protects true faith practice, but not under duress,’ Fadnavis stated. Prospective converts must inform officials for consent checks. Violations—through intimidation, fraud, or greed—carry seven-year sentences and fines, escalating for vulnerable groups like women, children, SC/ST communities.
The legislation empowers victims, kin, or police to act, nullifying sham marriages. This development highlights Maharashtra’s push to align with national trends on religious integrity, promising vigorous debates as lawmakers weigh personal liberty against societal safeguards.