Bare Act

The Jharkhand Freedom of Religion Act, 2017

This Act regulates religious change ceremonies in Jharkhand state by mandating advance notification to local authorities and maintaining "Forceful Conversion Registers." It applies to religious organizations and individuals conducting any type of religious conversion event, requiring police and magistrates to monitor, investigate, and potentially prosecute cases of unlawful conversion. The legislation creates a reporting mechanism where organizers must file forms 15 days before proceedings begin, allowing government officials to scrutinize consent, intent, and documentation. Law enforcement can halt suspicious events and investigate claims of forced conversion, with cases adjudicated by designated police officers. The measure aims to prevent fraudulent religious changes while ensuring conversions occur voluntarily, systematically, and transparently according to state procedures, ultimately serving to maintain religious harmony and community stability.

PDF: pending for this language.