New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday said it will examine a batch of petitions challenging anti-conversion laws enacted in several states and seeking a stay on their enforcement.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran issued notices to the concerned state governments, asking them to file their responses within four weeks. The matter has been listed for further hearing in six weeks.
During the proceedings, counsel for one of the petitioners argued that states, particularly Uttar Pradesh, have made their anti-conversion laws increasingly harsh. It was pointed out that violations under the UP law could invite a minimum sentence of 20 years. The petitioners also contended that these legislations reverse the burden of proof and make bail virtually impossible, especially in cases linked to interfaith marriages.
The counsel further submitted that the “twin conditions” for bail, which are found in stringent legislations like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA), have been replicated in these laws, undermining personal liberty.
Taking note of the arguments, the bench observed that the matter requires detailed consideration. The top court appointed Advocate Srishti Agnihotri as nodal counsel for the petitioners and Advocate Ruchira Goyal as nodal counsel for the states.
Several petitions have been filed against the anti-conversion laws passed by Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh. The petitioners have claimed that such legislations infringe upon fundamental rights, particularly the right to freedom of choice and faith.
