Allahabad High Court: ‘No Conversion, No Crime’ – Police Protection Granted to 12 Interfaith Couples
UP Anti-Conversion Law Not Applicable Without Religious Conversion
Court Reaffirms Right to Choose Partner Under Article 21
By Our Legal Correspondent
New Delhi: February 24, 2026:
In a landmark judgment, the Allahabad High Court has ruled that the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021 cannot be invoked against interfaith couples living together unless there is evidence of religious conversion. The Court directed police authorities to provide protection to 12 Hindu-Muslim couples who had approached the bench, citing threats from family members and third parties.
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Justice Vivek Kumar Singh emphasized that the law does not prohibit interfaith marriages or live-in relationships, and that the right to life and liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution must be upheld regardless of religious identity.
Case Background
- Petitions Filed: 12 couples, including seven Muslim women and five Hindu women, sought police protection after facing harassment for being in interfaith live-in relationships.
- Threats Reported: Families and local groups allegedly threatened the couples, prompting them to seek judicial intervention.
- Court’s Stand: The bench observed that couples are “two grown-up individuals” who have chosen to live together peacefully, and their choice must be respected.
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Court’s Observations
- No Conversion, No Crime: Sections 3 and 5 of the UP anti-conversion law apply only when there is evidence of forced or fraudulent conversion.
- Interfaith Relationships Protected: The law does not bar interfaith marriages or live-in arrangements.
- Right to Privacy and Liberty: The Court reiterated that personal choices in relationships fall under the ambit of Article 21.
- Police Duty: Authorities across districts were directed to ensure safety and protection for the couples.
Why This Ruling Matters
- Legal Clarity: Removes ambiguity about the scope of the UP anti-conversion law.
- Social Impact: Provides reassurance to interfaith couples facing societal pressure.
- Human Rights: Reinforces the constitutional guarantee of personal liberty and privacy.
- Judicial Precedent: Sets a benchmark for similar cases across India.
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Expert Reactions
Legal experts hailed the ruling as progressive, noting that it strengthens individual rights against misuse of laws. Social activists emphasized that the judgment could help reduce harassment of interfaith couples, who often face stigma and threats.
Conclusion
The Allahabad High Court’s ruling underscores a vital principle: interfaith relationships are not crimes unless accompanied by unlawful conversion. By granting police protection to 12 couples, the Court reaffirmed the constitutional right to choose a partner and live freely, setting a precedent for safeguarding personal liberty in India’s diverse society.
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