Maharashtra churches implement consent forms following new anti-conversion law

Churches in India's Maharashtra state have begun requiring worshippers to sign consent forms confirming their voluntary attendance at religious services. This initiative, adopted by approximately 4,000 churches in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, serves as a protective measure following the implementation of the 2026 Freedom of Religion Act. The new law, which took effect in late August, criminalizes religious conversions achieved through coercion, fraud, or allurement, with penalties including up to ten years in prison for repeat offenders.

Community leaders, including Devdan Tribhuvan of the Maharashtra Christian Development Association, stated that the declarations are intended to defend against potential false accusations of forced conversion. Church representatives expressed concern that the statute could be misused to target legitimate prayer gatherings. In addition to the forms, some congregations have installed security cameras following reports of 11 incidents over the past six months where groups disrupted services. Church officials described these measures as necessary precautions to safeguard pastors and congregants from legal challenges and harassment.