The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislators raised apprehensions about the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026 during a session in the State Legislative Council. NCP MLC Idris Naikwadi criticized the government within the ruling MahaYuti alliance, cautioning against any targeting while implementing the Freedom of Religion Act.
After its approval in the Maharashtra Assembly, the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill was presented in the Legislative Council for review. Minister of State for Home, Pankaj Bhoyar, introduced the bill in the State Legislative Council, sparking skepticism from Naikwadi regarding its enforcement.
Naikwadi highlighted concerns about potential misuse of the law, questioning the necessity to restrict voluntary freedom of religion. He urged for transparency in presenting the Bill and advocated for the removal of the 60-day prior notice requirement for conversions. Another NCP MLC, Amol Mitkari, emphasized the importance of upholding religious freedom without compromising the constitutional framework.
