Indian Churches Post “Enter at Your Own Risk” Signs as Anti-Conversion Laws Take Effect

Churches in India have posted signs outside their doors warning worshippers that they enter at their own risk, following the implementation of a new anti-conversion law in the Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh. According to the persecution watchdog Open Doors, the signs read: “Only Christians are allowed to enter church for prayers. If others come of their own free will, they will be held responsible for their choice.” The churches felt compelled to make it clear they were not forcing anyone to convert to Christianity in order to avoid potential violent backlashes. Open Doors reports that Hindu nationalist groups, and in some cases the authorities, are increasingly accusing churches of forced conversion, and that Christians now fear being targeted simply for welcoming visitors.

In Dhamtari, more than 1,000 people who are not registered as Christians have submitted self-declaration forms stating they are visiting churches voluntarily. The forms ask for personal details, information about the place of worship, and a declaration that the applicant has not been influenced, threatened, or deceived into attending. The Chhattisgarh government says its law protects vulnerable people from being pressured or deceived into changing faith. Maharashtra has seen similar changes, bringing in its own anti-conversion law on August 28 aimed at forced conversions. These are state laws, not national ones. Open Doors said the effect on worship is already being felt. In the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, pastors are asking worshippers to sign forms stating their attendance is “completely personal, voluntary and independent.” Believers must also supply identity documents and photos, which the charity said puts more barriers in the way of church fellowship. A local Open Doors partner said Christian leaders and believers are concerned about the freedom and safety of worship and asked for prayers for the church in India.