Forced conversion is a serious issue for the security of the country : SC to Centre

New Delhi – Supreme Court Justice MR Shah said, “Forceful conversions can also affect the security of the country. It is thus better if the Centre makes its stand clear on what steps it is taking to stop forced conversions”. On a petition filed by BJP leader Advocate Ashwini Upadhyay against religious conversions, the Court has asked the Central Government to submit its affidavit on the matter by 22^nd November.

The Bench agreed with Advocate Ashwini Upadhyay and said, “This is a very serious matter, and everybody has the right to choose their religion, but not through forced conversions. It’s a very dangerous issue. States may make their own laws in this regard, but the Central Government should tell us what steps it has taken in this regard. Otherwise it will be a very difficult situation. The Government should specify very clearly whether it is going to put forward a proposal for action. There is a law for conversions under the Constitution, but there is no law against forced conversions.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Central Government, reported to the Court that the States of Madhya Pradesh and Odisha have laws in this regard. The Supreme Court has also upheld the provisions in these laws.

Editorial Viewpoint

• Why does the Government have to be told this ? Why is the Government not taking cognizance of this issue ?
• For many years now, Hindus have been demanding a strict law in this regard; the Government should pay attention to this !