MP CM warns of jail for those involved in religious conversions in tribal areas

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has warned organisations involved in religious conversions in the state's tribal areas that they would face imprisonment under the law.

Speaking at an event in Jhabua district on Friday, Yadav said no missionary would be allowed to carry out religious conversions in the Dhar-Jhabua region.

"Those involved in religious conversions should listen carefully. No missionary is allowed to convert people in Dhar-Jhabua," he said.

"If they indulge in religious conversion, our government will send them to jail. We will take strict action against them," he added.

Officials said the Madhya Pradesh Religious Freedom Act, 2021, prohibits religious conversions through force, fraud or inducement and provides for imprisonment of up to 10 years and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh for those convicted.

During the event, Yadav distributed loans worth Rs 300 crore to women running self-help groups. He also laid the foundation stone for 29 development projects worth more than Rs 174 crore and inaugurated 28 projects valued at over Rs 109 crore in Jhabua district.