'Anti–Conversion' law actuated in fourth state

Himachal Pradesh state government brought into force, the anti–conversion law, which was passed in the state six months back, confirmed Christian sources.

The Congress led government brought the legislation in action six months after the governor gave assent to the controversial bill regulating religious conversions.

The maneuvering law has already been activated fully in other states namely Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh. With the addition of Himachal Pradesh, it rises to four.

The legislation although has also been approved in Arunachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat but is yet to be implemented.

The Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Justice Vishnu Sadashiv Kokje, signed the state law on February 19, 2007. The Bill was passed by the state legislature on December 19, 2006.

The law is unique as it was generated and passed by the secular Congress party while most other anti–conversion laws have been passed in states ruled by the Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Dr. Joseph D’souza, President of the All India Christian Council, previously said, “This law is unacceptable and betrays the promises of the Congress party to address the needs of minority faiths across India.”

“This law severely undercuts the fundamental right to freedom of religion, particularly for exploited Dalits and tribals. The assent of the governor amounts to an endorsement of the discrimination and persecution against religious minorities in Himachal Pradesh state," added the Christian leader.

The bill punishes anyone found involved in conversion by any fraudulent means with imprisonment up to two years and/or a fine of Rs twenty five thousand. If SC/ST members or minors are involved, five years imprisonment and/or Rs fifty thousand fine is the penalty.

Any members of religion wishing to change his/her faith is required to give 30 days prior information to district authorities or otherwise face punishment of one month imprisonment and/or Rs one thousand fine. However, any member returning back to previous religion is not considered violating this law.

Christian Rights groups have opinionated strongly against the legislation and severely castigated the government urging to repeal the laws.