Maharashtra's Anti-Conversion Bill Sparks Controversy Amid Support from Film Producer
Vipul Shah welcomes Maha anti-conversion law, cites Nashik incident

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Vipul Amrutlal Shah, producer of 'Kerala Story 2', has expressed support for the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026, following the TCS Nashik incident that he believes has shifted public perception. However, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi has criticized the bill, arguing it infringes on constitutional rights and could endanger interfaith marriages.
- 01The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026, aims to address forced religious conversions and includes provisions for imprisonment.
- 02Vipul Amrutlal Shah noted a change in public understanding of his film after the TCS Nashik incident, which he believes validates the film's themes.
- 03Asaduddin Owaisi described the bill as a severe infringement on privacy rights, claiming it criminalizes genuine conversions.
- 04Owaisi raised concerns about the implications for interfaith couples and the potential for arbitrary arrests under the new law.
- 05Maharashtra's Minister of State for Home, Pankaj Bhoyar, stated the bill is necessary to maintain public order and social harmony.
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Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the producer of 'Kerala Story 2', has publicly welcomed the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026, which aims to regulate religious conversions, particularly addressing forced conversions. Shah believes that recent incidents, particularly the alleged TCS Nashik incident, have led to a greater understanding of the themes explored in his film, shifting public perception positively. He praised the Maharashtra government for its efforts to develop the state through such legislation.
On the other hand, the bill has faced significant backlash from political figures, notably Asaduddin Owaisi, the chief of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM). Owaisi condemned the proposed legislation as a violation of constitutional rights, arguing it could criminalize genuine conversions and pose risks for interfaith couples. He expressed concerns that the bill could lead to arbitrary arrests and questioned its provisions regarding education and religious discussions, which he views as a breach of privacy rights. The Maharashtra government, however, defends the bill, stating it is essential for maintaining public order and social harmony amidst rising incidents of forced conversions.
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The bill could significantly affect interfaith marriages and religious freedoms in Maharashtra, potentially leading to legal challenges for couples wishing to convert.
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