STOCK MARKET LIVE BSE NSE

After UP, now MP cabinet approves a love jihad bill

MUMBAI: After Uttar Pradesh, the state of Madhya Pradesh became the second Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ruled state to approve a love jihad bill called as the Dharma Swatantrya (Religious Freedom) Bill 2020 at the cabinet meeting headed by chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday.

The proposal for the MP Dharm Swatantra Vidhayak which when becomes law either by getting passed in the assembly or by way of ordinance, will outlaw marriages which have been done with an aim of religious conversions. 

Briefing the media about the cabinet decision, state Home Minister Narottam Mishra said that when the bill becomes law, forcing religious conversion for marriage on someone will attract imprisonment of 1 to 5 years and a minimum fine of Rs 25,000. 

“The conversion of any person from religion to another on the basis of enticement, threats, force, marriage and conspiracy has been made punishable under this law. Mother, father or an organisation can register a complaint after which the police will start an inquiry,” Mishra said, adding that “There are provisions in the bill by which such marriages can also be annulled.” 

As per the provisions in the bill, any attempt to hide one’s religion will also be punishable by imprisonment of 3 to 10 years and a fine of at least Rs 50,000. Also if the victim is a minor or woman from the SC/ST communities then the accused will be punishable with imprisonment ranging from 2 to 10 years and a fine of Rs 50,000.

As per the bill, even the priests who carryout conversion of persons for purpose of marriage, will have to inform about such functions two months ahead to the district administration. Under the provisions of the bill, if he fails to inform the authorities in proper time, then he will be subject to imprisonment from 3 years to 5 years and a fine of Rs 50,000.

According to Mishra, the bill which will be now presented before the state assembly in the upcoming winter session commencing on Monday, also has stricter provisions for imprisonment and payment of alimony for a victim and her children who have been deserted.

Expression his happiness on the cabinet decision on the bill, Chouhan said that the bill was in line with his government’s mission to ensure Beti Bachao Abhiyan or save the daughter espoused by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Reporter

  • EP News Service
    EP News Service

    Crisp, and to the point news coverage from India and around the world.

    View Reporter News

Related News