Small Churches In Maharashtra Cancel Bible Camps Amid Conversion Law And Disruptions
· India · Indian Express, India Today
Protestant churches across Maharashtra are skipping or restricting Vacation Bible School programs during the Diwali break following prayer meeting disruptions and a new anti-conversion law. Church leaders in Mumbai and Nagpur reported that smaller churches operating in rented venues are particularly vulnerable to allegations of conversion. The state's anti-conversion law, which took effect on August 28, requires organizers to prove that any religious conversion is voluntary. Between April and July, five prayer meeting disruptions led to nine police FIRs against organizers and worshippers. In response, pastors are implementing registration fees and taking signed self-declaration forms from attendees to show participants attend of their own free will.
Why it matters
Christian communities in Maharashtra face heightened legal and security scrutiny under new state anti-conversion regulations affecting routine children's programs.
Read the original report — Indian Express
Join us on Telegram
Breaking news the moment it lands. At 10,000 members we ship the Android app.