Court Orders Protection for Petitioners and Victims Amidst Rising Trend of False FIRs Under Religious Conversion Law
In a landmark judgment, the Allahabad High Court, on April 13, 2026, raised serious concerns over the increasing misuse of the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021. The court was hearing a Criminal Miscellaneous Writ Petition filed by Mohd. Faizan and others against the State of Uttar Pradesh, seeking the quashing of an FIR that accused them of coercing a woman into religious conversion and harassment.
The bench, comprising Justices Abdul Moin and Pramod Kumar Srivastava, took a critical view of the FIR, highlighting that it was lodged by a third party with allegations that lacked credibility. The court noted that the victim's statement under Section 183 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, revealed no coercion or harassment, directly contradicting the claims made in the FIR.
Expressing alarm at the pattern of false FIRs filed under the 2021 Act, the court emphasized the unnecessary burden such cases place on legal authorities and the potential harm to individuals involved. In response, the court directed the provision of state security to the petitioners, the victim, and her family, to ensure their safety from potential harassment.
Furthermore, the court demanded accountability from the Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Government of Uttar Pradesh, ordering a personal affidavit detailing actions taken to address such misuse. The affidavit is to be submitted by May 19, 2026, failing which the official is required to appear in court.
This decision follows a similar concern raised by the Supreme Court in the case of Rajendra Bihari Lal v. State of U.P., indicating a broader judicial acknowledgment of the issue. The Allahabad High Court's ruling underscores the need for vigilant enforcement of laws without succumbing to external pressures, ensuring justice and protection for those wrongfully accused.
Bottom Line:
False FIR under Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021 - The court highlighted a disturbing trend of false FIRs being filed under the Act, wasting valuable time of authorities and affecting safety of individuals. Court directed security to the petitioners, victim, and her family members, while seeking accountability from the Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Government of U.P.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Section 183, Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021 Sections 3, 5(1).
