- 19 March, 2026
Mumbai, March 19, 2026 — The Catholic bishops of Maharashtra have voiced strong opposition to the newly enacted Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, warning that the legislation undermines constitutional guarantees of religious liberty and could adversely affect legitimate faith practices.
In a statement issued under the banner of the Western Region Bishops’ Council, the prelates expressed “deep disappointment” over the passage of the law, arguing that it contradicts the very principle of religious freedom it purports to protect. They maintained that the Act infringes upon the fundamental rights to freedom of expression, personal liberty, and the free profession and practice of religion as enshrined in Articles 19, 21, and 25 of the Constitution of India.
A key concern highlighted by the bishops is the law’s potential impact on the Church’s Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), a structured process through which adults are gradually prepared for baptism. The Council described the provisions as an “unwarranted interference” in established and legitimate religious practices.
The bishops also criticised the manner in which the legislation was passed, noting the absence of adequate consultation with religious communities. Drawing a contrast with earlier governance traditions, they referred to the tenure of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, during which, they said, efforts were made to engage stakeholders before introducing laws affecting religious groups.
Particular objection was raised to Chapter III, Section 6 of the Act, which requires individuals intending to convert to submit a 60-day prior notice to authorities. The provision also allows for official inquiries into the “intention, purpose, or cause” of conversion. According to the bishops, such measures intrude into the private domain of conscience and belief, creating the possibility of surveillance, suspicion, and harassment.
They further argued that these requirements contravene the right to privacy, as affirmed by the Supreme Court in the landmark Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (Retd.) vs Union of India judgment, which recognised privacy as intrinsic to life and personal liberty under Article 21.
Reiterating the Church’s long-standing position, the statement emphasised that the Catholic Church firmly rejects forced conversions. It pointed out that under Canon Law, adult baptism must be a voluntary act preceded by proper instruction. The RCIA process, which typically unfolds over several months, is designed to ensure that individuals make informed and free decisions about embracing the Christian faith.
However, the bishops cautioned that the new law could expose even such voluntary conversions to legal challenge. They warned that objections from family members or others could lead to allegations of coercion or “brainwashing,” potentially subjecting clergy and laypersons to criminal charges, including imprisonment and financial penalties.
Additional concerns were raised about provisions that appear to shift the burden of proof onto the accused, the absence of safeguards against false complaints, and the use of vague terminology within the Act. The bishops cautioned that these elements could lead to misuse, as has been alleged in similar laws enacted in other parts of the country.
Describing the legislation as lacking neutrality, the Council warned that it risks fostering division and mistrust, particularly among minority communities.
While reaffirming the Church’s commitment to national unity and development, the bishops stressed that such commitment does not preclude raising concerns when laws appear to depart from constitutional principles.
Calling for urgent reconsideration, the statement urged the government to withdraw or substantially amend the Act. “Religious freedom is a fundamental right,” the bishops asserted, “which the State is duty-bound to respect, protect, and uphold—not a concession to be regulated.”
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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