US State Department in its Annual Report on International Religious Freedom has criticized Gujarat, Rajasthan anti-conversion laws. The report says that the constitution of India provides freedom of religion under Art. 25(1) and (2), and anti-conversion law is against the spirit of the constitution. Moreover, governments at center have always been enthusiastic on protecting rights of minorities.

 

The report said that some state and local governments, including those of Gujarat and Rajasthan have enacted or amended ‘anti-conversion’ laws,’ which are against the freedom for religion guaranteed by the Indian Constitution. The report stressing on the tolerance and acceptability said that nations must not only make peace with their neighbors, they must maintain peace with themselves and respect diversity and protect minorities through law.

 

Also, according to report, promotion of religious freedom for all is central to American identity and a core objective of US foreign policy. US shows antipathy towards governments which repress religious expression, persecuted believers, and tolerate violence against religious minorities. The report has condemned violence against Christian minorities in several provinces of India.