Raipur
The Chhattisgarh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, on Tuesday approved the draft of the Chhattisgarh Dharm Swatantraya Vidheyak, 2026, aimed at tackling forced religious conversions in the state. The proposed legislation seeks to curb conversions carried out through force, inducement, fraudulent means, undue influence, or misrepresentation, strengthening safeguards for religious freedom.
Bill’s Core Objectives
The anti-conversion legislation focuses on preventing coercive practices in religious conversions, reinforcing earlier measures such as the 1968 Freedom of Religion Act. Authorities say the proposed law is intended to ensure genuine religious choice while preventing exploitation or manipulation, particularly in sensitive regions including tribal areas.
Officials indicated that provisions in similar earlier proposals included penalties of up to 10 years’ imprisonment for violations involving forced or fraudulent conversions.
Other Major Decisions by the Cabinet
- Approval for withdrawal of 13 politically motivated court cases, based on recommendations from a Cabinet sub-committee.
- Subsidies for renewable energy projects approved:
- ₹1.5 lakh for solar high-mast plants during 2024–26, or 30% of the tender cost thereafter.
- ₹9,000 subsidy per domestic biogas plant.
Key Legislative Reforms Approved
The Cabinet also cleared drafts for multiple reforms, including:
- Cess Amendment Bill abolishing the registration surcharge.
- Amendments related to urban and rural planning.
- Changes to the Chhattisgarh Housing Board Act.
- Formation of a Chhattisgarh Employee Selection Board for Class III and IV government posts.
- A Public Recruitment Fairness Bill to enhance transparency in competitive examinations.
- Amendments to specific sections of the Chhattisgarh Land Revenue Code.
Sports Infrastructure Boost
In another decision, the government approved allocation of 5 acres of state land to the Rajnandgaon District Cricket Association for the development of a modern cricket academy and sports facility.
These decisions highlight the Sai government’s focus on governance reforms, renewable energy promotion, transparent recruitment systems, and sports infrastructure development during the ongoing legislative session in the state.
