Interfaith Marriages Not Prohibited Under New U.P. Conversion Law: Allahabad High Court

Prayagraj: The Allahabad High Court has observed that interfaith marriages are not prohibited under the State’s anti-conversion law and ordered police protection for 12 interfaith live-in couples who had approached the court alleging harassment and interference.

Hearing a batch of petitions filed by the couples, the court directed the authorities in Uttar Pradesh to ensure their safety and to refrain from interfering in their personal lives.

Court’s Observations

The bench clarified that the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act does not ban interfaith marriages per se. The law, the court noted, is aimed at preventing forced or fraudulent religious conversions and cannot be invoked merely because two consenting adults of different faiths choose to live together or marry.

The court emphasized that:

• Two consenting adults have the fundamental right to choose their partner.

• Live-in relationships between adults are not illegal.

• State authorities must respect individual liberty and privacy.

State’s Argument

During the hearing, the State government had argued that the relationships in question were unlawful and possibly in violation of the conversion law. However, the court observed that unless there is clear evidence of forced or illegal conversion, consensual interfaith relationships cannot be treated as criminal.

Direction for Police Protection

The court ordered the police to provide protection to the 12 couples and ensure that no coercive action is taken against them without following due legal process.

It also directed respondents, including local authorities and family members where applicable, to refrain from interfering with the couples’ privacy and personal liberty.

Significance of the Ruling

Legal experts say the order reinforces constitutional protections under Article 21, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, including the freedom to choose a partner.

The case highlights ongoing legal debates surrounding interfaith relationships and the implementation of anti-conversion laws in Uttar Pradesh.

Further proceedings, if any, are expected after compliance reports are submitted by the authorities.