SC asks Centre to check practice of forceful religious conversion

A very serious issue that threatens the freedom and security of the country and its citizens, says top court

The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Centre to step in and check the practice of forceful religious conversion, saying that it is "a very serious issue that threatens the freedom and security of the country and its citizens, along with their freedom of conscience".

A bench of Justices M R Shah and Hima Kolhi said that while everyone has freedom of religion, conversion can't be forced.

The court directed the Central government to file a counter affidavit on the steps it will take to curb the practice. “It is thus better if the Centre makes its stand clear as