Daijiworld Media Network- Dehradun

Dehradun, Aug 14: The Uttarakhand Cabinet on Wednesday approved sweeping amendments to the state’s anti-conversion law, introducing tougher penalties — including up to life imprisonment — along with heavy fines for offenders.

The decision, taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, gives the green light to the Uttarakhand Freedom of Religion (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The proposed law seeks to tighten existing provisions and add fresh safeguards against illegal religious conversions.

Under the amendments, inducement has been defined broadly to include gifts, cash or goods benefits, employment offers, free education, promise of marriage, hurting religious sentiments, or glorifying another religion — all categorised as criminal offences.

The bill also prohibits promoting or inciting conversion through social media, messaging apps, or any other digital platforms. Offences will attract strict punishment:

• 3 to 10 years imprisonment for general violations

• 5 to 14 years for offences involving sensitive communities

• 20 years to life imprisonment in serious cases, along with substantial fines

It also provides for strict punishment in cases where marriage is contracted by hiding one’s religion or using a fake identity. Provisions for protection, rehabilitation, medical care, travel, and maintenance expenses for victims of illegal conversions have also been included.

According to the state government, the legislation aims to protect citizens’ religious rights, curb conversions carried out by fraud, inducement, or pressure, and preserve social harmony.