The religion of an individual depends on the religion followed by the family to which he belongs. Becoming disillusioned by the faith he/she is following or for some other reason, renouncing it and adopting another religion and its ideals is known as the Change of Religion.
India, with its diverse population, is home to followers of several different religions and religious conversions are common here. The government has therefore listed it as a basic right of the individual. As per Article 15 of the Constitution, an individual is given the right to choose/ follow the religion of his/her choice. Some reasons for religious conversion like marriage, personal decision, adoption, and others are legal in India but religious conversion through persuasion, coercion, and financial gains is illegal.
Vakilsearch provides guidance and assistance in various legal matters. The legal experts at Vakilsearch will guide you through the entire change of religion procedure.
Religion Change Procedure in India
In India, the process of religious conversion is very simple. One must always consult a lawyer as he will help you to get it done without any hassle and according to the rules. After submission of the application for conversion, there is a waiting period during which the authorities do the verification and check if all the required documents are submitted and correct. Finally, a notification of conversion is issued in the National Gazette to this effect. The National Gazette is an online record published and maintained by the Indian Government. The process is very simple and streamlined but takes some time to complete. The process of religious conversion can be done online also. After the issuance of the notification, a copy of the same can be downloaded from the official website for future use.
Steps for Religious Conversion in India
The steps for Conversion of Religion are mentioned below:
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Change of Religion Affidavit
The first step in the process of religious conversion is to prepare a change of religion Affidavit. A change of religion Affidavit is mandatory because the new religion adopted by the individual must reflect in all the official IDs across the country. Since the affidavit is a legal document, it should be made on stamp paper. It contains information like the name of the applicant, permanent address, the earlier religion, and the new religion embraced by him/her. The document must be notarized by a registered Notary Public.
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Advertisement in Newspaper
The next step required is to advertise in a widely read newspaper. Details of the applicant’s name, age, address, change of religion, earlier religion, and new religion must be clearly specified in the newspaper advertisement. This step is essential to ascertain that no one has an objection to this religious conversion. Also, it becomes clear that there is no fraud or illegality associated with it. A copy of the advertisement must be saved for future use.
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Publishing in Gazette
Notification in the National Gazette is the final step after which the process of religious conversion is complete. It is an online record-keeping system published by the Central Government. After the filing of the Gazette application by the applicant, it is verified by the department. If all the papers are in order the declaration on religion change is granted. The Notification to this effect is published in the e-Gazette. After filing the application, it takes between 45 to 60 days for the process to complete.
Documents Required for Gazette Notification
Below mentioned are the documents needed for Gazette notification:
- Copy of the Affidavit
- Copy of the Newspaper Advertisement
- Self-attested passport-size photograph
- Copy of identity proof – Self-attested
- CD containing all the information about the application
- Govt. fee for religion change
Documents Required for Religion Change Application
Below mentioned are the documents needed for the Religion Change Application
- Affidavit on stamp paper: The minimum value of the stamp paper must be ₹ 10/-
- Original newspaper copy in which the advertisement was published
- Conversion certificate (in original) from the respective religious institution
- The prescribed application (proforma) in printed format duly signed by the applicant and two witnesses and the declaration
- Two passport-size photographs
- Photocopies of valid ID proof – PAN card/ Aadhar card/ Passport/ Voter ID)
- A request letter along with the registration fee to the authority
The different personal laws provide an individual with an easy process to change the religion if required but it must be kept in mind that the individual must abide by the law and not succumb to greed, fraud, or unlawful dealings. Validity of the conversion will be maintained only if everything is done within the legal boundaries. Visit Vakilsearch’s website to know more. Conversion to Hinduism
No explicit procedure is mentioned Under Hindu law for conversion to Hinduism. Only an honest desire, intention, and will to embrace Hinduism are enough. Any individual can file a signed application desiring change of religion to Hinduism with valid age and address proof with signatures of two witnesses. The application should be submitted to any Arya Samaj Mandir. The applicant has to go through a purification ritual or Shuddhikarana too. After this, he is provided with a certificate of conversion.
Conversion to Islam
A person can convert to Islam in two ways:
- Through Declaration: The individual should publicly declare that he has renounced his earlier religion and embraced Islam. He should also declare that Allah is the only God and that Muhammed is his true messenger. Also, he must show complete faith in the holy Quran
- Through Ceremonies: The individual should go to the Mosque where the Imam will ask him to repeat after him the testimony of faith. Then a Muslim name is conferred on him and enrolled in the Imam’s register.
Conversion to Christianity
A person can renounce his earlier religion and convert to Christianity through a pledge of apology for sins committed earlier. He must also believe in Jesus and follow the New Testament. He has to be baptised for conversion.
Conclusion
We hope this article has been helpful in providing information on the Change of Religion in India. Article 15 of the Constitution provides all Indian citizens with the freedom to follow the religion of their choice. Religious conversions are common but individuals must go through the legal process for its validity.
Click on Vakilsearch to get assistance in applying for religious conversion. With Vakilsearch, you will receive advice and guidance from experts. They will also assist in filing the affidavit for religious conversion. The experts will guide you through the process of notarising an affidavit, running a newspaper ad, and publishing a notice in the national Gazette and other such requisites.
FAQs
How do I officially change my religion?
Officially changing your religion often involves submitting a formal application to the relevant government authorities. You may need to provide documentation, such as a notarised affidavit, supporting your decision to change your religion. Consult local religious or legal authorities for specific guidance tailored to your jurisdiction.
What is the affidavit for religion change?
An affidavit for a religion change is a sworn statement affirming your decision to change your religious affiliation. This legal document is often notarised and includes details such as your old and new religion, reasons for the change, and personal information. It serves as evidence during the official process of religious conversion.
What is required for Gazette notification?
To publish a Gazette notification for a religion change, you typically need to submit a formal application along with supporting documents like the affidavit, proof of conversion, and any other documents specified by the government. The process may vary, so it's essential to check with local authorities for specific requirements.
Why is Gazette notification needed?
Gazette notification is necessary to publicly announce and record your change of religion. It serves as an official record, providing legal recognition to your religious conversion. This process enhances transparency and ensures that the change is documented and acknowledged by government authorities and the public.
How many days will it take to get Gazette notification?
The timeframe for obtaining Gazette notification for a religion change varies depending on the jurisdiction and administrative procedures. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. To get accurate information, contact the relevant government office or publication authority overseeing Gazette notifications in your area.
How many days does Gazette take?
The duration for Gazette notification depends on the efficiency of the administrative process and the workload of the relevant authorities. While some jurisdictions may expedite the process, others may take more time. It's advisable to check with the specific Gazette office or government agency to get an estimate for your individual case.
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