6th August 2024 (8 Topics)
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Out of law
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Context
The present Uttar Pradesh government's response to its electoral loss in the Lok Sabha elections by amending the Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act. The changes make the law more stringent, affecting interfaith relationships and conversions, and raise concerns about state interference and religious freedom.
Stricter Penalties and Broader Scope
- Increased Penalties: Imprisonment and fines are significantly raised for conversion offenses, with second-time offenders facing up to life imprisonment and fines reaching one lakh rupees.
- Broader Scope: The amended law includes threats, marriage promises, and overseas funding in its purview, expanding the definition of unlawful conversions.
- Third-Party FIRs: Amendments allow any third person to file complaints, inviting potential misuse by vigilantes and local leaders to target interfaith relationships.
Constitutional Concerns and Political Motivations
- Intrusive Law: The law presumes all conversions are suspicious, undermining constitutional religious freedom and enabling widespread state interference in personal choices.
- Interfaith Relationship Impact: The amendments make interfaith live-in relationships illegal, disproportionately affecting minority communities and fueling societal intolerance.
- Political Motive: The stringent law diverts attention from governance issues like development and employment, using intolerance to gain political advantages for the ruling party.
Mains Question:
Q. “Critically examine the implications of the amended Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act in Uttar Pradesh on religious freedom and interfaith relationships. Discuss the constitutional challenges it poses.”
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