What Prompted Chhattisgarh Churches to Restrict Worship Entry?

Several churches in Dhamtari, Chhattisgarh, have introduced restrictions on worship entry following the implementation of the state’s new Freedom of Religion Act, 2026. According to Christian Today India, notices have been displayed outside churches stating that worship services are intended for Christians. One notice at the historic Sunderganj Mennonite Church says that non-Christians who enter voluntarily do so at their own risk. A similar notice has reportedly been placed outside the Church of God. Local Christian leaders told the publication that more than 10 churches may have introduced similar notices. The Dhamtari District Christian Forum reportedly encouraged churches and prayer halls to adopt precautionary measures. The development comes after the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, was notified in August. The legislation establishes penalties for conversions carried out through force, fraud, inducement and other prohibited means, while also introducing procedures for people seeking to change their religion. Christian leaders quoted in the report said the notices are intended as a precaution rather than a rejection of visitors. One pastor said that some church leaders were concerned about possible accusations and disruptions during worship services. Diamond Philus, general secretary of the Dhamtari District Christian Forum, said the notices were primarily intended to reduce the possibility of action under the new law. Christian representatives have also raised concerns about the effect of the legislation on religious freedom. The report notes that the law itself does not specifically prohibit non-Christians from casually visiting churches or attending worship services. However, church leaders say they are taking additional precautions because of the wider tensions surrounding religious-conversion allegations in the state. The situation highlights continuing discussions in Chhattisgarh about religious freedom, conversion laws and the balance between preventing unlawful conversions and protecting the constitutional freedom to practise and profess religion.