Changing one’s religion is a personal decision protected by Article 25 of the Constitution. In Maharashtra, however, it is now also a regulated procedure. The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, passed in March 2026, received the President’s assent and came into force on 28 August 2026. This guide explains what it requires and how it relates to the gazette notification many people obtain after conversion.
What the Act prohibits
The Act prohibits conversion by force, coercion, fraud, misrepresentation, undue influence, allurement (defined broadly to include money, gifts, employment, free education or marriage prospects), or by marriage-related deception. Voluntary conversion remains lawful, but must follow the procedure below.
The procedure for a voluntary conversion
| Step | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Before conversion | A declaration or notice to the District Magistrate (or authorised competent authority) at least 60 days in advance |
| Enquiry | The authorities may enquire into the intention, purpose and cause of the proposed conversion |
| After conversion | A declaration within 21 days of the conversion |
| Non-compliance | Can affect the validity of the conversion and lead to action |
The person performing or organising a conversion ceremony may also have obligations under the Act. Read the notified rules and forms for the exact procedure.
Penalties
Unlawful conversion attracts imprisonment and fines, with higher penalties where the person converted is a minor, a woman, a person of unsound mind, or from a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe, for mass conversions, and for repeat offenders (up to ten years). Complaints can be made not only by the person converted but by parents, siblings and other close relatives, and the Act places the burden of proof on the accused in certain cases.
Marriage and conversion
- The Act targets conversions carried out for the purpose of, or through deception in, marriage.
- Inter-faith couples who wish to marry without either partner converting can marry under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, which involves a 30-day notice at the Marriage Registrar’s office. See court marriage in Mumbai.
- Couples facing threats or interference can seek police protection and approach the High Court.
Where the gazette fits in
The Maharashtra Government Gazette offers a “change of religion” notification through the DGPS e-Gazette. A gazette notification is a public declaration that helps update records; it is not a substitute for the notice and declaration required by the 2026 Act. Complete the statutory procedure first, keep copies of your notice and declaration, and then apply for the gazette if you need it for your records. A name change on conversion is a separate notification. See gazette fees and time.
Legal challenges
Several State anti-conversion laws are under challenge before the Supreme Court on the grounds of privacy, freedom of religion and personal liberty. The outcome may affect how the Maharashtra Act is applied. Until then, the Act is in force and should be complied with.
Frequently asked questions
I converted before 28 August 2026. Do I need to give notice now?
The prior-notice requirement applies to conversions after the Act came into force. Take advice on your records if your conversion was close to that date.
Can I reconvert to my original religion?
The Act’s provisions and any exemptions for returning to one’s original religion should be checked in the notified text and rules before acting.
Can I change my name and religion in the gazette together?
Change of name and change of religion are separate services on the DGPS portal; each needs its own application.
See also: gazette services and nikah registration.
Consultations are by appointment. To fix a time, telephone +91 99301 50560 or send a message on WhatsApp.
This guide describes the law as understood in October 2026, shortly after the Act came into force. Rules and forms under the Act, and court rulings, may change the position. It is not legal advice.