Athawale opposes Maharashtra govt's 'love jihad' law plan, says PM considers all as equal

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale opposes Maharashtra's "love jihad" law, emphasizing the need to prevent conversions and maintain social harmony.

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Sunday (February 16, 2025) opposed the Maharashtra government's move to draft a law to stop "love jihad".

"Love jihad" is a term used by right-wing outfits to allege conspiracy by Muslim men to convert Hindu women through marriage.

The Maharashtra government has issued a Government Resolution (GR) stating that a committee headed by the director general of police (DGP) will suggest steps to tackle complaints of "love jihad" and forced conversions.

It will also look at legal aspects and the laws framed in other States and recommend legislation to prevent such instances.

Explained | What are the existing laws on religious conversions?

"It is wrong to call interfaith unions as love jihad. There should be a provision to prevent conversions. Steps should be taken to prevent disruption of social and religious harmony," the Union Minister for social justice and empowerment told reporters.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi considers everyone as equal and has initiated welfare measures for all. Muslims also benefit. PM Modi is against extremist Muslims and not the community," the Republican Party of India (A) chief added.