'Buddhists, Jains fears on Guj Bill misplaced'

New Delhi, Sept 20: The BJP today defended the Gujarat Freedom of Religion (amendment) Bill, 2006 saying it only lays down procedures to avoid post-conversion controversies and the fears raised by Buddhists and Jains are misplaced.

BJP spokesman Prakash Javadekar said the amendments passed by the Gujarat Assembly only provide explanation to the Freedom of Religion Act, 2003 whereby those wanting to convert voluntarily to another religion should apply with the district authorities. This only would obviate future problems and the procedures would smoothen the process, he added.

Regarding fears expressed by the Jains and Buddhists, Mr Javdekar said they were covered under the Hindu Code passed by Parliament.

''They will continue to be governed by the same regulation,'' he said.

The Bill was yesterday passed by the Gujarat Assembly by a voice vote amid protests from the opposition benches.

UNI

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