The Maharashtra government has approved a draft bill aimed at regulating religious conversions, signifying a major policy shift in the state. According to the proposed legislation, any individual wishing to convert to another religion must obtain the necessary permission from the relevant authority at least 60 days before making the change. This requirement is designed to create a formal process for religious conversions, which the government believes will help prevent coercion or forced conversions.

In addition to the notification period, the bill mandates that the religious conversion must be registered with the relevant authority within 25 days following the change. If an individual fails to register their conversion within this timeframe, the change will be considered invalid. This aspect of the law underscores the state's push for accountability and documented proof of religious transitions, thus potentially reducing instances of fraudulent or contentious conversions.

The proposed legislation also includes provisions for filing complaints. If a person’s relative believes that the conversion was carried out unlawfully, they have the right to file a complaint with the authorities. This measure indicates the government's intent to ensure oversight and maintain a check on the religious conversion process, reflecting a broader concern about the implications of such changes on societal cohesion and religious harmony in Maharashtra.