Christian Forum Seeks Repeal of Karnataka Anti-Conversion Law, Stronger Action Against Hate Crimes

BENGALURU, October 30, 2026: The All Karnataka United Christian Forum for Human Rights has urged the Karnataka Government to repeal the state's anti-conversion law, strengthen measures against hate speech and crimes targeting minorities, and implement commitments made in its election manifesto.

The demands were raised at a press conference at Paalana Bhavana, Archbishop's House Campus, Benson Town, Bengaluru, where representatives of minority communities, civil society organisations and human rights groups called for legislative and administrative measures to safeguard constitutional freedoms and protect vulnerable communities.

In a press release issued on October 29, the forum identified three priority areas requiring government intervention, including religious freedom, protection against communal hostility and fulfilment of electoral promises.

The forum demanded the repeal of the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022, arguing that the legislation places religious minorities, particularly Christians, under suspicion and restricts the constitutional right to freedom of conscience.

It maintained that certain provisions and procedures under the Act could discourage individuals from exercising their right to profess, practise and propagate religion, guaranteed under Article 25 of the Constitution. The representatives described the legislation as an overreach and urged the government to honour its commitment to repeal it.

The second major demand concerned stronger legal provisions and effective enforcement against hate speech, communal incitement and crimes targeting religious minorities and other vulnerable groups.

Expressing concern over incidents of intimidation, threats and hostility against minority communities, the forum called for timely investigations, prosecution and accountability. It also sought a review of the existing legal framework and necessary amendments to address hate crimes, while ensuring that freedom of speech and expression is protected.

The third demand urged the government to fulfil its election manifesto commitments, particularly those relating to marginalised and economically disadvantaged sections of society.

The forum called for a review of several measures introduced by the previous government, including the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Act, 2020, and the withdrawal of Category 2B reservation for Muslims through a government order dated March 27, 2023.

It also raised concerns over amendments to the Land Reforms Act and the implementation of the Four Labour Codes, arguing that these measures have implications for the livelihoods and security of vulnerable communities.

The representatives urged the state government to reconsider the policies and introduce a framework that ensures social justice, economic security and constitutional safeguards.

Emphasising Karnataka's religious, cultural and linguistic diversity, the forum said the government must translate its commitment to constitutional values into concrete action.

It called for equal protection of religious freedom, human dignity and citizenship rights, stressing that legislative measures should promote equality, secularism and fraternity among all communities.

By Catholic Connect Reporter