Inspired By Uttar Pradesh, Pramod Sawant Plans Similar Anti-Conversion Laws In Goa, Notices 'Love Jihad' Cases

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Monday (21 July) called for an anti-conversion law in the state, claiming that “targeted” religious conversions are taking place, reported The Indian Express.

Speaking in the Legislative Assembly during a calling attention motion, he stated, “Forced conversions are not allowed under the anti-conversion law in Uttar Pradesh... I feel we too need a law so that forced conversions do not take place.”

He added, “There was denial about ‘love jihad’. We have noticed cases of ‘love jihad’ in the state. If you want, I can give you details later.”

BJP MLA Premendra Shet and AAP MLA Cruz Silva raised concerns about an “international network” operating in Goa, allegedly involved in illegal conversions. They cited the recent arrest of S B Krishna alias Ayesha by UP Police in connection with a conversion racket funded by international sources.

Opposition demands evidence

GFP president Vijai Sardesai questioned the relevance of the “love jihad” narrative in Goa. “If there are forced conversions, show us the data. Where is the report?” he asked. Independent MLA Aleixo Lourenco added, “There are no conversions happening in Goa, especially from the Catholic side.”

Sawant clarified, “Goa’s harmony has never been disturbed and it should never be... But forced conversions… by giving money… should not happen.”

Cruz Silva called for an in-depth probe and criticised the local police’s lack of awareness about the accused’s presence in Goa.

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