by SADIA J. CHOUDHURY
In Indian politics, religion has always been a powerful and sensitive subject. But as elections approach, certain issues—often emotionally charged rather than materially relevant—resurface with intensity. One of those is religious conversion. With the resurgence of anti-conversion laws across several BJP-ruled states, a question naturally arises:
Is the ruling party once again playing a dangerous political game with the common people of India?
The Politics of Control Disguised as Faith
India’s constitution guarantees every citizen the freedom to practice, profess, and propagate their faith. Yet today, several anti-conversion laws appear to weaponize this personal right—primarily targeting religious minorities under vague allegations of force or inducement.
Many of these laws are being used less as a safeguard of religious freedom and more as a tool for surveillance and intimidation. Adults who convert by choice are sometimes subject to investigations, public vilification, and legal threats.
Conversion Is Not the Problem—Perception Is
The actual number of religious conversions in India remains minimal—far less than 0.01% of the population annually. But by repeatedly framing this as a national crisis, a narrative of fear is fostered among the majority community.
The result?
• Suspicion and hostility toward Muslims and Christians
• Growing social polarisation
• And above all, a political strategy that consolidates votes through fear rather than vision
Programs like “Ghar Wapsi” or accusations of “Love Jihad” have gained more media traction than real socioeconomic issues such as inflation, unemployment, and education.
This Is Not Just About Religion—It’s About Rights
This is no longer just about BJP vs Congress or Left vs Right.
This is about human rights vs manufactured outrage. When a citizen’s belief becomes a matter of criminal investigation, it undermines the very foundation of democracy.
Religion, when used as a political weapon, doesn’t elevate public discourse—it poisons it. It doesn’t unite the nation—it fractures it.
Conclusion
The average Indian—regardless of faith—wants stability, dignity, access to food, healthcare, and education. When the focus shifts from these real issues to fear-driven debates over faith, it is not the politicians who suffer.
It is the people, the fabric of harmony, and the future of the republic that pays the price.
Let us be clear: the issue is not conversion. The issue is when religion becomes a calculated political tool. In that game, the loser is always the nation.
