The Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has recently introduced a bill in the state assembly aimed at addressing what is referred to as love jihad. The proposed legislation seeks to impose life imprisonment as a penalty for those found guilty of engaging in deceptive practices related to interfaith marriages. The bill is likely to get passed in the house on Tuesday.Term Love JihadLove jihad is a controversial term used by some to describe alleged efforts to convert individuals to another religion through romantic relationships. Critics argue that the term is used to further political and social agendas and that the concept itself is rooted in misinformation and prejudice.What is the bill all aboutThe bill introduced by the Yogi government aims to penalize individuals who are accused of misleading others into marriage or conversion under false pretences. Proponents of the bill argue that it will protect individuals from coercion and ensure that interfaith marriages are based on mutual consent and respect for religious beliefs.However, the bill has faced significant criticism from various quarters. Opponents argue that it could be used to target and harass individuals in interfaith relationships, potentially infringing on personal freedoms and privacy.Critics also warn that the bill may exacerbate communal tensions and contribute to a climate of intolerance.10 years of punishmentThe UP government previously passed the Prohibition of Religious Conversion Bill 2021 in the Assembly. This legislation stipulates punishments ranging from 1 to 10 years for violations. It renders conversions done solely for marriage purposes invalid and considers deceitful or fraudulent conversions as criminal offenses.According to the law, individuals opting for voluntary conversion must notify a magistrate at least 2 months in advance. The bill also prescribes 1-5 years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs 15,000 for forced or fraudulent conversions. For cases involving a Dalit girl, the penalty increases to 3-10 years in prison and a Rs 25,000 fine.The central government has stated that religious conversion laws fall under state jurisdiction, leaving it to state governments to decide.
