The Karnataka government took a significant step on Wednesday as it repealed the controversial anti-conversion law enacted by the previous BJP government in 2022. The law had faced strong opposition from various Christian organizations and individuals, leading to its challenge in the Karnataka High Court. In February 2023, the court had suspended the implementation of the law, providing temporary relief.
Criticism and Repeal:
The newly formed government, led by the Janata Dal (Secular), deemed the law as “draconian” and a violation of the fundamental right to freedom of religion. It acknowledged that the law had instilled fear and a sense of insecurity among the Christian community in the state. Recognizing the need for inclusivity and harmony, the government made the decision to repeal the law.
Controversial Provisions:
The anti-conversion law was passed in December 2021 by the previous BJP government. The law criminalized forced, fraudulent, or allurement-based religious conversions. Additionally, individuals seeking to convert to another religion were required to provide a 30-day notice to the district magistrate.
Community Criticism:
The law faced extensive criticism from Christian organizations and individuals, who argued that it was discriminatory and targeted Christians in the state. These concerns prompted the legal challenge in the Karnataka High Court, resulting in the suspension of the law’s implementation in February 2023.
Victory for the Christian Community:
The repeal of the anti-conversion law represents a significant victory for the Christian community in Karnataka. The law had created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, impacting the community’s freedom of religion. Its repeal is a positive step towards restoring peace and fostering harmony within the state.
Setback for the BJP:
The repeal of the law presents a setback for the BJP, which had strongly advocated for its implementation, citing the need to protect Hinduism from “forced conversions.” The party had envisioned leveraging the law to mobilize Hindu voters ahead of the 2023 Assembly elections. However, the repeal is expected to negatively impact the BJP’s electoral prospects.
The repeal of the controversial anti-conversion law in Karnataka marks a significant milestone in upholding the principles of freedom of religion and fostering inclusivity. The decision by the state government to repeal the law demonstrates its commitment to ensuring peace, harmony, and the protection of individual rights. This development highlights the evolving landscape of religious freedom in India and sets a positive precedent for other states to follow.
