Conversion, unless forced, is not prohibited

• The Delhi HC observed that a religious conversion, unless forced, is not prohibited as every person has the right guaranteed under the Constitution to choose or profess any religion.

What Is in the Petition?

• Seeking directions to frame laws to prohibit religious conversions by
  • intimidation or threat,
  • deceivingly luring a person through gifts and monetary benefits,
  • using black magic and superstition.
• Mass conversions of socially and economically underprivileged people, particularly those belonging to STs and SCs, are happening.
• Religious conversion by luring offends Articles 14, 15, 21, and 25 of the Constitution and the principles of secularism.

Other Remarks by HC:

• Conversion is not prohibited.
• It’s a right of an individual to profess any religion, religion of his birth, or religion that he chooses to profess. That’s the freedom our Constitution grants.
• Social media is no data
  • Newspapers, social media, and WhatsApp cannot be relied upon for facts.
• If someone is coerced into converting then that is the person’s prerogative.

Prelims Takeaway:

• Right to Freedom of Religion