According to Christian Today, several churches in India’s Chhattisgarh state have installed signs warning new visitors that they enter the church at their own risk.

In recent years, there has been a growing backlash against Christianity in the world’s most populous country which has nearly 1.5 billion citizens.

This has resulted in several Indian states passing what are commonly referred to as anti-conversion laws.

This included Chhattisgarh, which passed similar legislation in August, 2026. Ironically, called The Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 2026. Critics say that, despite its name, the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act actually restricts religious freedom.

“The law punishes religious conversion carried out by force, fraud, inducement or marriage with 7 to 10 years in prison and a fine of at least about $5,000,” Shireen Bhatia writes.

The prison sentence can increase to upwards of 20 years, if the converting individual is a woman, minor or even the lower members of India’s historic caste system. Mass conversions involving more than two people could lead to life imprisonment.

The legislation also requires anyone converting from Hinduism to another religion to notify the government.

In their declaration form, converts must provide the location of the church they are joining and affirm that they did it voluntarily. Their names and religions will then be published, potentially making them vulnerable to pressure and attacks.

In recent years, Christian pastors have reported receiving threats because of their faith.

“Many of us feel afraid. Some pastors, including me, have received threats,” one pastor told Christian Today. The pastor’s name was withleld to protect his identity. “Every Sunday we worry that our worship may be disturbed. Some pastors have moved their services online because they do not feel safe.”

Although the legislation does not specifically address people attending a Sunday service, pastors are concerned. At issue is who defines “inducement.” Could a preacher’s sermon calling people to repent fall under this definition?

It is estimated that at least 10 churches have put up warning signs as a result of the legislation. One of them is located at a 125-year-old Mennonite church in Sunderganj. The sign at the church entrance reads: “In accordance with church management rules, entry into the church for worship is restricted to Christians. Others who enter voluntarily do so at their own risk.”

Open Doors ranks India as the 12th-most-dangerous country in the world for Christians noting that 12 states have already passed anti-conversion laws.

“In theory, the laws are meant to protect all religions, but the reality is very different – aided by the laws’ vague wording,” Open Doors writes. “It means that even a constitutionally approved activity – such as a prayer meeting – can lead to an accusation, arrest and interrogation.”

Open Doors adds that false accusations are particularly dangerous because they can lead to mob violence.

If governments continue to repress the Christian faith, critics fear that this could embolden activists