Supreme Court Upholds Judicial Prudence by Striking Down High Court’s Comments on Religious Conversions
The Supreme Court has dismissed remarks made by the Allahabad High Court regarding the potential future minority status of the majority population in India due to religious conversions. This decision came as the Court granted bail to an accused under the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice JB Pardiwala, and Justice Manoj Mishra stated that the High Court’s comments were inappropriate, particularly at the bail stage. “Such general remarks should not be used in any other case,” the Supreme Court emphasized.
The Allahabad High Court, presided over by Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal, had previously denied bail on July 1, citing concerns over religious conversion activities. The High Court had heard that the informant’s brother was taken to a “well-being” gathering in Delhi, where attempts were allegedly made to convert individuals from their faith.
In its ruling, the High Court expressed that if such practices were permitted to continue, the majority population could eventually become a minority. Justice Agarwal also highlighted that while Article 25 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of conscience and the right to profess, practice, and propagate religion, it does not encompass the conversion of individuals from one faith to another.
The Supreme Court’s expungement of these remarks underscores its commitment to ensuring that judicial commentary remains appropriate and relevant, especially in sensitive matters involving religious beliefs.
(With inputs from agency)
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