INDIA: Supreme Court to Review Anti-Conversion Laws

Source: Voice of the Martyrs AU, Voice of the Martyrs Canada, India Today, Deccan Herald, Supreme Court Observer, The New Indian Express

The Supreme Court of India has agreed to hear a series of petitions challenging the constitutionality of anti-conversion laws enacted by several states in the country. On 16 September, the court issued notices to the respective state governments, requesting their formal responses within four weeks. The case is scheduled to be heard two weeks later, and the judges have indicated that they may consider ordering the states to pause the enforcement of their existing laws until a decision is made.

The petitions, which various organisations have filed, argue that the anti-conversion laws are being weaponised against religious minorities in India. Petitioners further assert that the legislation enables false accusations – often without supporting evidence – under the guise of preventing forced religious conversions. There is a total of 13 applicants associated with the submitted petitions.

During the initial hearing, a lawyer representing Citizens for Justice and Peace urged the court to expedite the matter, citing recent amendments in at least two states that have made the laws more stringent. Legislators in these states have openly stated that the amendments aim to prevent all religious conversions, not just those deemed coercive or fraudulent.

• Ask God to give the Supreme Court judges discernment and courage to rule fairly and uphold true freedom of religion in India. Pray that the proceedings will be handled with integrity and without political influence.

• Many Believers face harassment, false accusations, and violence because of these laws. Pray for God’s protection over them, that they would stand firm in faith and experience His peace even amid uncertainty.

• Ask the Lord to move in the hearts of those in authority—state and national leaders alike—to recognise the injustice caused by these laws. Pray that they would act with compassion, ensuring that India remains a place where all can freely follow their faith.