Minority leaders demand repeal of Karnataka anti-conversion law
Religious representatives and civil society groups have called for stronger protections against hate speech and crimes targeting minority communities.
Representatives of religious minority communities and civil society organisations have asked the Karnataka government to scrap the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022, according to a Deccan Herald report.
In a joint statement released on October 29, Bangalore Archbishop Peter Machado and Karnataka Rajya Muslim Okkooota convener Mohammed Yahya Damudi said the law undermined freedom of conscience and fostered suspicion among minorities.
The leaders claimed the legislation introduced intrusive procedures and broad restrictions that could lead to criminal prosecution for exercising constitutional freedoms. They requested the state to protect the religious freedoms promised under Article 25 of the Constitution.
The signatories also called for more effective enforcement and tougher legal measures to combat communal incitement, hate speech, and violence against vulnerable groups. They emphasised the importance of accountability and prompt investigations.
The statement further requested the government to review policies from the previous administration, such as the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Act, 2020, and the removal of Category 2B reservation for Muslims.
The group stated that removing these laws while increasing protections against crimes targeting minorities would help ensure religious freedom, human dignity, and equal citizenship for all.