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Advocate Virendra Ichalkaranjikar terms failure to notify 2026 Act a ‘major loss for the State’
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Concerns raised over the omission of ‘attempt to convert’ charges in the FIR
Mumbai, Maharashtra – In the case registered in connection with the ‘love jihad’ incident at TCS in Nashik, it appears that the words ‘attempt to convert’ have been deliberately omitted. The nature of the offence is not limited to sexual harassment; it indicates a broader pattern of religious conversion.
During the recent Maharashtra budget session, the ‘Freedom of Religion Bill’ was passed to curb conversions carried out through inducement, deception, or coercion. Despite the Bill being passed in the legislature, if the offence related to religious conversion is not being registered in this case due to the absence of a gazette notification, then it is a major loss for the State.
Stating this, Advocate Virendra Ichalkaranjikar, National President of Hindu Vidhidnya Parishad, has called for action under the Freedom of Religion Act in the TCS case.
Advocate Ichalkaranjikar also questioned why, despite nine offences being registered so far, the police have not utilised the Freedom of Religion Law in this matter.
Is the law being deliberately ignored?
As per provisions of the Freedom of Religion Bill, repeat offenders are liable for stricter punishment. In this case, some of the accused are reportedly repeat offenders.
Had action been taken under the anti-conversion law, it could have extended to action against the institution where these incidents occurred. Advocate Ichalkaranjikar expressed suspicion as to whether the law is being deliberately overlooked to protect the institution.