FREEDOM OF RELIGION IN INDIA: A LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK

AUTHOR – SHRADHA YADAV* & ASHOK DOBHAL**,

* STUDENT AT LAW COLLEGE DEHRADUN, UTTARANCHAL UNIVERSITY

** ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AT LAW COLLEGE DEHRADUN, UTTARANCHAL UNIVERSITY

BEST CITATION – SHRADHA YADAV & ASHOK DOBHAL, FREEDOM OF RELIGION IN INDIA: A LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWOR, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (4) OF 2025, PG. 397-405, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

ABSTRACT

“In this study, we investigate the intricate legal structure that the Indian government has in place to protect religious liberty. Despite the fact that the Indian Constitution recognises the right to religious freedom as a basic right, the implementation and interpretation of these articles have undergone considerable changes as a result of legislative actions and judicial declarations. The purpose of this study is to investigate the constitutional provisions, anti-conversion legislation at the state level, judicial interpretations, and contemporary obstacles to religious freedom in India. According to the findings of the study, there is a conflict between individual religious liberties and state interests in regulating religious activities that are perceived to be in violation of public order, health, and morality. This conflict persists despite the fact that the constitution provides substantial protections for religious freedom. Following the findings of the research, it is concluded that India’s approach to religious freedom represents a delicate balance between plurality and secularism. This delicate balance is something that continues to be fought and negotiated via legislative measures and judicial scrutiny.”

Keywords: Religious freedom, Indian Constitution, Anti-conversion laws, Secularism, Fundamental rights