New Delhi: Former Orissa High Court judge Dr. S. Muralidhar called anti-conversion laws “pernicious,” stating they violate freedom of choice and target Dalits.
Speaking at an ADF India panel in Delhi, he said these laws don’t prevent coercion but control personal choices.
As a keynote speaker, he debunked RSS and BJP myths on conversions, stressing that such laws force private decisions into public scrutiny.
He highlighted that India’s Constitution upholds plurality and freedom, but these laws shift the burden of proof onto the accused.
Muralidhar argued that anti-conversion laws mainly oppress Dalits, women, and interfaith couples, limiting personal freedom.
While legal challenges matter, he said real change needs society to uphold constitutional values. Oppressed groups still face caste cruelties, leading many to seek conversion as an escape.
