Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Monday called for the implementation of a strong anti-conversion law in Goa, stressing the need to prevent forced or fraudulent religious conversions in the state.
Speaking during a public interaction, Sawant noted that several other states have already enacted such laws, and Goa too must consider similar legislation to protect communal harmony and ensure religious freedom is not misused.
“We need to identify such elements who are involved in forceful conversions. While the police and special branches are doing their job, it's equally important for gram panchayats and elected panch members to remain alert and informed about the activities happening in their local areas,” the Chief Minister said.
Sawant assured that the police would act swiftly against such individuals, and warned that those found guilty of such acts will not be tolerated in Goa. “Police won't take much time to crack down on such people, and in future, we won't allow them to operate in the state,” he added.
The statement has sparked fresh debate on the need for anti-conversion legislation in Goa, with civil society groups and legal experts expected to weigh in on the possible implications of such a move.