UP Tightens Anti-Conversion Law: Key Changes and Impact

Background and Rationale

• Uttar Pradesh government introduced changes to the Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021 in July 2024
• Original 2021 Act aimed to stop forced religious conversions
• Criticism of the original law for being unclear and ineffective
• Concerns about illegal conversions, especially among vulnerable groups
• Government cites inadequate protection for minors, women, and SC/ST communities
• Initiative taken by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to curb 'love jihad'

Key Amendments and Stricter Provisions

• Expanded FIR Filing: Now "any person" can file an FIR, not just the "aggrieved person"
• Stringent Bail Conditions: Accused must prove innocence and show they won't reoffend

Increased Punishments:

• • Maximum punishment increased from 10 years to life imprisonment
  • Higher fines, especially for offenses involving vulnerable individuals
  • New penalties for financial dealings with foreign entities related to illegal conversion
• Jurisdiction: Cases to be heard only by Sessions Court or higher
• Non-bailable Offenses: All crimes under the amended Act made non-bailable
• Specific Offenses: Threatening, attacking, marrying, promising to marry, conspiring, or trafficking with intent to convert classified as most serious category

Implications, Potential Impact & Criticism

• Possible adoption of similar laws in other BJP-ruled states
• Likely legal challenges from NGOs and legal experts
• Potential Supreme Court scrutiny on constitutionality and enforcement
• Debate intensification on anti-conversion laws in India
• Criticism from opposition parties focusing on other issues like employment and inflation
• Azad Samaj Party MP Chandrashekhar's statement on failure of government priorities such as provide shelter, food, housing, good education and good health.