Hyderabad, August 19: Maulana Mushtaq Malik, president of the ‘Tehreek Muslim Shabban,’ has raised concerns over the proposed law regarding forced conversions in Maharashtra. He questions the provisions of the law, fearing potential misuse. Malik asserts that conversion is a personal matter, stemming from an individual’s thoughts, beliefs, and faith. He emphasizes that there should be no coercive interference in this process.
Malik also opposed linking interfaith marriages or conversions to the term ‘love jihad.’ He pointed out that similar laws have emerged in various forms in BJP-ruled states. He objected to provisions concerning the religious identity of children born after a conversion and inheritance rights related to property. He noted that if forced conversion is proven and a child is born from such a situation, the provision allowing custody to remain with the mother is not inherently objectionable. However, making such children heirs to both parties’ properties could conflict with Sharia inheritance laws.
He reiterated that conversion is a matter of personal belief and conviction. No one should be compelled to accept a religious faith against their will. Islam also prohibits forced conversions. If the law contains ambiguities, it could be exploited to exert pressure on individuals. Decisions related to one’s religion and personal choices should not be criminalized based solely on suspicion or social pressure.
Citing a case from the Allahabad High Court, he mentioned that the court prioritized the rights of two adult sisters regarding their conversion and marriage, emphasizing their adulthood and right to make personal decisions. The court even imposed fines on the relevant parties.
Addressing concerns over ‘love jihad,’ Maulana Malik clarified that love and jihad are distinct concepts. Labeling interfaith marriages as ‘love jihad’ based solely on religion is inappropriate. If two adults marry of their own volition, regardless of differing faiths, this should be viewed in the context of their constitutional rights rather than politicized. The politicization of sensitive issues like conversion and interfaith marriage is detrimental to society.
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