Maharashtra Churches Ban Entry to Bible Schools Amid Fear of Conversion Allegations

Several Protestant and independent churches in Maharashtra have modified their Vacation Bible School (VBS) programmes. Fearing allegations of conversion and disruptions by right-wing groups, some churches have cancelled these programmes entirely, while others have restricted entry to Christian children only. According to an India Today report, churches in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Vasai-Virar, Palghar, and Pune are exercising extreme caution in organising these programmes during summer and Diwali breaks.

Traditionally, Vacation Bible School is a time of entertainment and education for children aged 5 to 15. These programmes include songs, games, arts and crafts, and Bible stories. Generally, Christian children used to bring friends from various other religions along to these programmes. However, to avoid allegations of conversion, some churches have now avoided conducting these programmes or have banned the entry of children from other religions.

This change comes in the context of the implementation of the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act and disruptions caused by right-wing groups. According to the report, right-wing groups had previously disrupted prayer meetings and other religious gatherings held in rented commercial spaces, banquet halls, and private residential houses by alleging illegal conversion. This resulted in police complaints and the filing of FIRs. These incidents have increased the fear of similar conflicts among the organisers of children's camps.

To tackle this situation, pastors have taken several precautionary measures. Prior registration has now been made mandatory for VBS programmes and fees are also being charged, so it can be proven that no child has been brought to the camp through inducement or allurements. Additionally, CCTV cameras have been installed in churches and records of unknown visitors are being maintained. Banners providing information about the programmes are also being put up.

According to the India Today report dated August 27, churches in Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region had started getting people visiting the church to sign self-declaration forms even before the anti-conversion law came into effect on August 28. This step was taken as a precaution to avoid interference during prayer meetings and allegations of forced conversion.

Under the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, religious conversion carried out through force, fraud, or inducement is considered a criminal offence. Due to this law, anxiety has increased among church organisers that activities for children could also be viewed as attempts at inducement or conversion.

Pastor Sam K. Mathai, Secretary of the Palghar District Masih Sangati, stated that pastors in Vasai-Virar and Palghar had for the first time excluded children of other religions from VBS programmes in April, and this practice will continue during the Diwali vacation. He added, "Churches are taking steps such as prior registration of children, installing CCTV cameras, and keeping records of unknown visitors. Anyone organising a VBS is taking all precautions."