The Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has proposed significant amendments to the existing anti-conversion law, specifically targeting what is referred to as "love jihad." The newly introduced Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion (Amendment) Bill, 2024 aims to impose life imprisonment for those found guilty of engaging in acts associated with love jihad, effectively doubling the previous maximum punishment of ten years.
Key Amendments
- Life Imprisonment: The most notable change is the introduction of life imprisonment for individuals convicted of love jihad-related offenses. This includes actions such as threatening, attacking, or marrying someone with the intent to convert them to another religion.
- Expanded Definitions: The bill broadens the definition of love jihad, encompassing a wider range of offenses that could lead to severe penalties. This includes not just forced conversions but also any fraudulent means used to manipulate someone into changing their faith.
- Complaint Registration: The amendments allow any individual, not just the victim or their immediate family, to file a complaint regarding suspected love jihad incidents. This change aims to facilitate reporting and increase accountability.
- Non-Bailable Offenses: All offenses under this act will be classified as non-bailable, meaning that bail will not be granted without the involvement of a public prosecutor.
- Stricter Penalties: The bill also introduces hefty fines, with penalties for forced conversions now reaching up to ₹5 lakh, alongside the possibility of imprisonment ranging from 20 years to life for severe offenses.
Political Reactions
The proposed amendments have sparked significant political debate. Supporters within the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) argue that these changes are necessary to protect individuals from deceptive practices under the guise of love and marriage. They assert that the law serves as a deterrent against illegal conversions.
Conversely, opposition parties, particularly the Samajwadi Party, have criticized the amendments as divisive and indicative of negative politics. They argue that the government is using this issue to distract from pressing social concerns such as unemployment and corruption. Samajwadi Party leader Fakhrul Hasan Chand has condemned the move, suggesting that it is motivated by a desire to create animosity within society.
The bill is expected to be passed in the state assembly by voice vote, reflecting the BJP's majority in the legislature.
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