Christian religious leader Anil Martin has raised concerns over religious freedom during a press conference on the proposed Madhya Pradesh Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill 2026, saying that even prayer and worship conducted inside homes are increasingly being questioned on allegations of religious conversion.
Speaking at a press conference attended by religious leaders and legal experts from Muslim and other minority communities, Martin said the Constitution guarantees citizens the right to practise their religion. He claimed that Christian families often invite relatives and acquaintances to their homes for prayer on occasions such as birthdays and wedding anniversaries, but alleged that complaints and accusations of conversion are sometimes made when prayers or religious songs can be heard outside.
Concerns Over Home Prayer
Martin said such incidents were affecting religious activities, including what he described as “house church” gatherings. He argued that individuals should not face restrictions for carrying out religious activities within their homes.
He also questioned what he described as differing attitudes towards religious practices in public and private spaces, and said religious freedom should be protected equally for members of all communities.
Call For Wider Consultation
On the proposed UCC, Martin said legislation covering sensitive issues such as marriage, divorce, inheritance and live-in relationships should be preceded by wider public consultation.
He called for the views of women's organisations, tribal communities, religious groups, legal experts and civil society organisations to be considered before provisions affecting personal and family matters are finalised.
Martin also expressed concerns about government intervention in matters involving personal life and privacy. He raised questions about provisions concerning registration of live-in relationships and criminal consequences in certain family-related matters.
‘Community Fears Legal Action’
Responding to questions about why the Christian community has reportedly been less vocal than some other groups in opposing the UCC, Martin said many members of the community prefer to avoid police stations, courts and prolonged legal disputes.
He claimed there was apprehension that raising objections could lead to cases or administrative action. At the same time, he said representatives of the community were continuing to communicate their concerns to the government through constitutional means.
Constitution Cited
Martin referred to Articles 14, 19, 21 and 25 of the Constitution while seeking protection of equality, personal liberty, life and religious freedom.
“We are concerned that our religious freedom is being taken away,” he said.
The comments came amid wider debate over the proposed Madhya Pradesh UCC Bill 2026, with religious representatives and legal experts from different minority communities raising questions about its potential impact on personal laws, privacy and religious practices.
The claims and concerns raised at the press conference represent the views of the participating religious leaders and legal experts. The government's position and the final interpretation of the proposed provisions would be important in assessing their legal and practical impact.
