Following the implementation of the new law against religious conversion in Maharashtra, an atmosphere of apprehension has emerged within Protestant and independent churches. Due to the threat of interference from legal organizations and the enactment of a strict state act known as the 'Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act,' many churches have either restricted or completely canceled their 'summer Bible school' programs.
Churches in areas such as the Mumbai city corporation, Vasai-Virar, Palghar, and Pune are exercising extreme caution regarding these events, which take place during Diwali and summer holidays. Traditionally, VBS involves children aged 5 to 15, where lessons are conducted through songs, games, crafts, and Bible stories.
Previously, these camps welcomed not only Christian children but also friends from other faiths. However, to avoid accusations of coercion or temptation, many churches have either closed these events or imposed a ban on non-Christian children participating.
The main reason lies in the attempts by legal groups to obstruct prayer meetings held in rented halls, banquet halls, and private homes, leveling charges of religious conversion. This has resulted in numerous First Information Reports (FIRs). It is because of this fear that organizers are now exercising heightened vigilance when conducting children's camps.
Pastor Sam Ke Mathai, Secretary of the Church of Christ in the Palghar area, reported that pastors from Vasai-Virar and Palghar first separated children of other faiths from VBS programs in April, and they plan to continue this practice during Diwali holidays.
Mathai added that 'churches are now using various protective measures, such as pre-registering children, installing CCTV cameras, and keeping records of unknown visitors. Anyone organizing VBS is exercising maximum caution.'
Organizers are setting up banners, conducting registrations, and charging fees to prevent allegations that children were invited under any influence or temptation.
It should be noted that on August 27, India Today reported that before the law came into effect on August 28, churches in Mumbai and its surroundings began requiring visitors to fill out self-declaration forms at prayer meetings. The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act criminalizes conversion performed through coercion, fraud, or temptation, forcing church leadership to be fully prepared to avoid any disputes.
