Overview

• The Assembly approved the Rajasthan Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Bill by voice vote after Congress boycotted the debate and protested over alleged surveillance cameras.
• All conversion-related offences become cognisable and non-bailable, with cases triable by sessions courts under a framework that expands offences to include online solicitation and marriage used as a pretext.
• Penalties range from seven to 14 years for fraudulent conversions to 20 years to life for mass conversions, with heavy fines that can reach up to Rs 1 crore and enhanced terms for minors, women, and SC/ST or disabled persons.
• Voluntary conversions require individuals to notify the Collector 90 days in advance and religious officiants 60 days before, triggering public notices, objections, and hearings, with violations drawing substantial jail terms and fines.
• Marriages undertaken for conversion can be declared void, the burden of proof lies on the accused, reconversion to ancestral religion is exempt, and properties used for mass conversions face confiscation or demolition with protections for officials acting in good faith.