A 30-year-old man from Potiadih village in Chhattisgarh sadly died by suicide on Saturday. Before his death, he posted on social media about feeling very upset because his wife and her family were pressuring him to change his religion.
The police found him dead in his home on December 7. They discovered his WhatsApp message where he said he was being constantly “harassed” by his in-laws. He even shared his feelings with his brother-in-law just hours before ending his life.
In his message, he wrote, “I am fed up with my wife. She harassed me to change my religion. When I visited her family, her mother and sisters also pressured me to convert, saying they would later convince my parents.”
The situation led to police arresting four people: the man’s wife, her parents, and one of her sisters. They have been charged with helping in the suicide case. The search is ongoing for the woman’s younger sister.
In response to these issues, the Chhattisgarh government is planning to pass a new law against forced religious conversions. This proposed law includes strict penalties to stop people from converting others through pressure or tricks.
If someone wants to change their religion, they must inform the District Magistrate 60 days in advance, and those helping with the conversion must show proof that it was not done through any unfair means. If someone illegally converts a minor, woman, or a member of a Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe, they could face 2-10 years in jail and a fine of at least ₹25,000. Mass conversions could lead to 3-10 years in prison and a fine of ₹50,000. Victims may also get compensation of up to ₹5 lakh.
Many rights groups are against these anti-conversion laws, saying they violate people’s freedom to choose and practice their religion. The Indian Constitution protects the right to freedom of religion through Article 25, allowing everyone to practice and share their faith freely.
If you or someone you know is feeling distressed, remember that help is available. You can contact Sumaitri in Delhi at 011-23389090 or Sneha Foundation in Chennai at 044-24640050.
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