Similar laws have been oppressing the Copts in Egypt, and Christians in Iran, for decades, and are common throughout the Islamic world. This specific Indian legislation is being advanced by Hindu nationalists.
Bill Passes in India Jailing Converts, Clergy for Failure to Give Prior Notice of Conversion
Madhya Pradesh legislature approves amendment to ‘anti-conversion’ law.
July 23, 2013 - NEW DELHI (Morning Star News) – India’s Madhya Pradesh state has passed legislation that would send those who convert and their religious leaders to prison for failing to obtain permission from authorities at least one month prior to conversion.
The bill requires the governor’s signature before becoming law. Existing law in Madhya Pradesh requires those who convert to notify government officials after conversion; the new legislation not only requires prior permission but also obligates religious leaders to report the conversions, and it increases prison terms from one to three years for clergy and converts who fail to do so.
