Maharashtra to Crack Down on Fraudulent SC Certificate Holders and Forced Conversions
Maharashtra's Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, announced plans to nullify Scheduled Caste certificates obtained fraudulently by non-Hindus, Buddhists, or Sikhs. He promised action against those benefiting from such certificates and highlighted measures against forced religious conversions. The government aims to introduce strict legal provisions to tackle these issues effectively.

- Country:
- India
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared on Thursday that individuals from religions other than Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism who fraudulently acquire Scheduled Caste certificates will face cancellation of these documents. Speaking in the legislative council, he specified that any advantage gained from such deceitful practices, including government jobs, will lead to legal actions.
In response to a motion, Fadnavis emphasized the state's commitment to curbing forced religious conversions. This comes amid claims of 'crypto Christians' exploiting Scheduled Caste reservations while practicing Christianity privately. Furthermore, a Supreme Court verdict affirmed that only Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs are eligible for reservations under this category.
The Maharashtra government intends to implement stringent laws to prevent coercive conversion practices, backed by recommendations from a police-led panel. An anti-conversion law, set to be more strict than those in other states, is slated for introduction during the upcoming legislative session. However, consensual conversions will not be banned.
(With inputs from agencies.)
ALSO READ
Mastermind Behind Religious Conversion Racket Nabbed by UP ATS
Uttar Pradesh Cracks Down on Religious Conversion Racket
UP ATS Cracks Down: Alleged Religious Conversion Racket Mastermind on 7-Day Remand
ED and ATS Target Alleged Religious Conversion Mastermind, Chhangur Baba
Uproar in Uttar Pradesh: Death Penalty Demanded for Religious Conversion Ringleader