Law Against "Love Jihad"! Maharashtra's Devendra Fadnavis Govt Sets Up 7-Member Panel To Make New Laws

Maharashtra is considering joining other states with laws against forced conversions and "love jihad." The state government has formed a seven-member panel to explore potential legislation. This panel, led by the director general of police, includes officials from various departments such as women and child welfare, minority affairs, law and judiciary, social justice, special assistance, and Home.

The term "love jihad" refers to an alleged conspiracy where Muslim men are accused of luring Hindu women into marriage to convert them to Islam. Maharashtra's BJP-led government issued a resolution on Friday stating that the committee will examine existing laws in other states and suggest measures to address complaints related to forced conversions and "love jihad."

Government's Approach

Maharashtra minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha expressed gratitude towards Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for taking steps against "love jihad." He stated that the government is committed to preventing such incidents. According to Lodha, the committee aims to protect women and uphold cultural values by addressing cases of "love jihad."

Lodha also mentioned his previous efforts as head of the Women and Child Development department under Eknath Shinde's leadership. He had established the Interfaith Marriage Coordination Committee, which helped highlight such incidents. He cited several cases where Hindu women were allegedly murdered by their Muslim partners.

Opposition's Viewpoint

However, Supriya Sule, Lok Sabha MP and NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) Working President, believes the government should prioritise economic issues over personal matters like love and marriage. She emphasised that economic challenges could affect the entire nation if not addressed.

States like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat already have laws targeting "love jihad." Last year, Uttar Pradesh passed a bill allowing up to 20 years or life imprisonment for conversions made under threat or false promises of marriage.