Mumbai Churches Ask Worshippers to Sign Consent Forms Under New Anticonversion Law
Churches across Mumbai are asking congregants to sign self-declaration forms affirming they attend worship voluntarily, following the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act taking effect on August 28. Pastors say the forms are a protective measure against false accusations of forced conversion. Violations of the law carry prison terms of up to seven years.
Churches across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region have begun asking worshippers to sign self-declaration consent forms after the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026 took effect on August 28.
The law, which was officially gazette-notified on July 30, requires anyone intending to convert to another religion to give 60 days' notice to the District Magistrate. Violations carry prison terms of up to seven years for a first offense and up to 10 years for repeat violations.
By signing the forms, attendees affirm that they are participating in prayers voluntarily and without coercion, inducement, or threat. Churches store the signed documents in their offices to present to authorities if challenged.
Pastors including Sam Mathai of Vasai and Devdan Tribhuvan of Bhandup say the measure is a response to a pattern of disruptions by right-wing groups who have entered churches without authorization, citing unsubstantiated claims of illegal conversions. Some groups have allegedly harassed and beaten attendees.
The practice began roughly two to three months before the law's effective date. Worshippers are also asked to provide a photograph and a government-issued identity number.
Spokespersons for the Bombay Catholic Sabha say the current climate of false accusations has made documentation necessary to ensure the safety and continuity of religious services. Minority communities have expressed concern that the law may be disproportionately applied against them.
