The Gujarat government has issued a circular clarifying that Buddhism, Sikhism, and Jainism are considered separate religions, and individuals seeking to convert from Hinduism to these religions must obtain permission from the District Magistrate. The circular, issued by the Gujarat Home Department on April 8, outlines the provisions of the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act 2003 in this regard.
The circular highlights that individuals wishing to convert to Buddhism need to adhere to the rules and obtain prior permission from the District Magistrate. It notes instances where conversions to Buddhism have occurred during festivals without following the required procedures.
Previously, there was confusion regarding whether Buddhism, Sikhism, and Jainism were considered separate religions under the law, as some offices interpreted them as falling under Hinduism. However, the government has clarified that these religions are indeed separate entities, and conversion to them requires permission as per the provisions of the Gujarat Religious Freedom Act.
The circular emphasizes that individuals facilitating conversions from Hinduism to Buddhism, Sikhism, or Jainism must also obtain prior permission and provide necessary information to the District Magistrate in the prescribed format. This clarification aims to ensure compliance with the legal procedures for religious conversions in Gujarat.
