Archive · 31 Jan 2026
Uttarakhand's Conversion Law Faces Scrutiny
In Uttarakhand, India, a law called the UFRA was made to stop forced religious conversions.
But after seven years, the courts have not found enough proof in many cases.
Out of 62 cases, five went to full trial, and all five people were found not guilty.
Many others got bail because the couples were in love, or the police didn't follow the rules.
The law has been changed to make punishments harder, but the governor sent it back to fix mistakes.
Some people say the law is being used to trouble interfaith couples, while others say it's needed to stop forced conversions.
All five cases under Uttarakhand's conversion law that went to full trial resulted in acquittals due to lack of evidence.
Out of 62 cases registered, 39 are out on bail, with many cases showing consensual relationships or procedural lapses.
The UFRA was amended in 2022 and 2025 to increase jail terms, but the 2025 amendment is pending due to 'clerical errors'.
Several cases involved third-party complaints, which were dismissed due to lack of evidence or verification.
Interfaith couples have faced legal action for not seeking prior permission from authorities, but many have been granted relief.
- Who
- Interfaith couples, religious figures, and individuals accused under the UFRA
- What
- Acquittals and bail grants in cases under Uttarakhand's conversion law due to lack of evidence
- When
- Between 2020 and 2025, with notable cases in 2023 and 2025
- Where
- Uttarakhand, India
- Why
- Due to lack of evidence, hostile complainants, and procedural lapses
- Law
- Uttarakhand Freedom of Religion Act (UFRA)
- Cases Registered
- 62
- Cases Acquitted
- 5
- Bail Granted
- 39 out of 51 known cases
- Amendments
- 2022 and 2025
- Highest Penalty
- 20 years or life imprisonment
- Key Issue
- Lack of evidence in cases
- Governor's Action
- Returned 2025 amendment for corrections
