On 27th January 1999, a thought-provoking seminar on "Conversions & Secular India" was held at the Constitution Club, New Delhi. The event brought together political leaders, academicians, and analysts to deliberate on the complex and sensitive issue of religious conversions in India and its impact on secularism, social harmony, and national identity.

Key Speakers & Insights

• Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Union Minister, highlighted the constitutional and legal perspectives on religious conversions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining India's secular fabric while ensuring freedom of religion as enshrined in the Constitution.

• Acharya Giriraj Kishore, General Secretary, VHP, expressed concerns about forced conversions and the need to protect India’s cultural and religious heritage. He stressed the role of society in preserving traditional values.

• Shri K.J. Vari, Principal, Modern School, Vasant Vihar, discussed the role of education in promoting secular values, ensuring that students grow up with a balanced understanding of religious diversity and national unity.

• Shri Kanchan Gupta, Political Analyst, provided an analytical perspective on the political and social implications of conversions, touching upon the influence of religious conversion movements on Indian democracy and electoral politics.

• Shri D.P. Sinha (Retd. I.A.S.), spoke about policy measures that could help balance religious freedom with national integration, advocating for a fair and unbiased approach to religious practices in India.

Event Conclusion

The seminar concluded with a dynamic exchange of ideas among the speakers and attendees, emphasizing the need for dialogue, legal clarity, and responsible social practices in addressing the issue of conversions in a secular and democratic India. The discussion reinforced the importance of respecting religious diversity while ensuring national unity and social harmony.