Maharashtra Anti-Conversion Bill: Anti-conversion law introduced in Maharashtra, what are the new rules regarding marriage, children and punishment

News India Live, Digital Desk: This law introduced by the Maharashtra government is very similar to the laws of other states (like Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat), but some special changes have been made in it regarding the rights of children and the definition of ‘inducement’.1. Special Provisions for Children (Rights of Children) The most important and unique section of the Bill is Section 5, which deals with children born out of marriages resulting from ‘illegal’ conversion: Determination of religion: If a marriage has taken place due to illegal conversion, the religion of the child born out of that marriage will be the same as was the original religion of his mother before the marriage. Right to inheritance: The child is entitled to inherit the properties of both his parents. Custody: Custody of the child will remain with the mother, unless the court directs otherwise.2. Punishment and PenaltiesGeneral Conversion: 7 years’ imprisonment and a fine of ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh if found guilty.Vulnerable Group: If the victim is a minor, a woman, or from the SC/ST community, the punishment will be 7 years and a fine of up to ₹5 lakh.Mass Conversion: 7 years’ jail and ₹5 lakh fine for simultaneous conversion of 2 or more people.Repeat Offence: If a person or institution commits the offense again. If so, then the punishment may extend to 10 years and the fine may increase up to ₹ 7 lakh.3. Broad definition of ‘allurement’ and ‘coercion’ The Bill makes ‘allurement’ very broad: it includes offers of cash, gifts, free education (in religious institutions), promises of a better lifestyle, and claims of ‘divine healing’. A new addition to the Maharashtra bill is that declaring one religion superior to another or presenting the rituals of a religion in a harmful manner will also be considered inducement or coercion.4. Mandatory Notice and Procedure60 days prior notice: The person wishing to convert and the organization organizing the ceremony will have to give 60 days notice to the District Magistrate (DM). Public Objection: The administration will put up this notice on a public board and invite objections within 30 days. Verification: A declaration will have to be submitted to the district authorities within 21 days of the conversion.5. Marriage and Legal StatusIf a marriage has been solemnized only for the purpose of conversion, the competent court can declare that marriage null and void. The burden of proof will be on the person who has done the conversion.