INDIAN EXPRESS DATED 25th AUG 2026

Summary of Important News Items Editorials-440

INDIAN EXPRESS DATED 25th AUG 2026.

(for reading Indian Express News items from 1 to 439 please visit –

web.prernaforias.com)

1. Maharashtra Anti-Conversion Law: Religious Freedom versus Prevention of Coercion

Maharashtra’s tougher anti-conversion law is set to come into force on August 28, and its impact is already visible among Christian congregations in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Pastors in Vasai-Virar, Mira-Bhayandar, Palghar, Thane and Mumbai have begun asking worshippers to sign self-declaration forms stating that they attend prayers voluntarily and face no inducement, threat or pressure. The forms, which sometimes seek Aadhaar or PAN details, emerged after repeated disruptions of prayer meetings and several FIRs. The law criminalises conversion through coercion, fraud, misrepresentation, inducement or undue influence and imposes stricter punishment where vulnerable persons are involved. The underlying constitutional issue is the balance between preventing forced conversion and protecting freedom of conscience and religion. The gist is that anti-conversion legislation must target demonstrable coercion without creating a chilling effect on voluntary worship, association or legitimate religious choice; policing must remain impartial when prayer meetings themselves become sites of confrontation.

2. Wandhama Massacre Case Reopened after 28 Years: Justice versus Evidentiary Delay