A petition challenging the validity of the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, was heard in the Chhattisgarh High Court on Oct. 8, even as the intense persecution of the Christian community in the central Indian state continues unabated. Based on the petition, the High Court issued a three-week notice to the Chhattisgarh government, demanding a formal response to objections raised in the plea. The Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly passed the Chhattisgarh Dharma Swantantrya Act (Freedom of Religion) in March 2026, and the Governor formally assented to it in April, replacing the earlier similar act in force since 1968.