The academic initiative aimed to examine anti-conversion laws from a sociological perspective and promote informed dialogue beyond legal and political debates. The event drew a diverse audience of academics, researchers, religious leaders, priests, religious sisters, students, social workers, and members of the wider community.

Fr. Dr. John Singarayar, SVD, Director of the Institute of Indian Culture, welcomed the participants and emphasized the Institute’s commitment to creating spaces for academic engagement and constructive dialogue on issues affecting Indian society. Fr. Dr. Scaria, SVD, moderated the session and introduced the keynote speaker.

The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Fr. Dr. Joseph M. T., SVD, faculty member in the Department of Sociology at the University of Mumbai. Drawing on his expertise in sociology, he examined the historical development of anti-conversion laws in India and their social implications.
He explained that religious conversion involves not only legal and theological questions but also issues of identity, caste, culture, power, and individual freedom. His presentation explored the relationship between religion and social change and considered how anti-conversion laws affect inter-community relations, public discourse, and the exercise of constitutional rights.

Prof. Joseph encouraged participants to approach the subject through objective inquiry and to move beyond stereotypes by considering the lived realities of different communities. He also emphasized dialogue, mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, democratic values, and constitutional principles in India’s pluralistic society.

An interactive session followed the lecture, allowing participants to raise questions concerning the legal, social, and ethical dimensions of anti-conversion laws. The discussion provided an opportunity to explore the complexities surrounding religious conversion in contemporary India from different perspectives.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Fr. Ivan, who acknowledged the speaker, organizers, moderator, and participants. Bro. Swaminathan, SVD, was also recognized for coordinating the logistical arrangements. Through the lecture, the Institute of Indian Culture continued its commitment to scholarly inquiry and constructive dialogue on contemporary social and cultural issues.