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28. Rival submissions fall for consideration.

29. It would be apposite to briefly gauge into the laws governing conversion, particularly, in State of Uttar Pradesh and the relief, if any, the petitioners are entitled to.

C. Anti Conversion Laws/Freedom of Religion Act

30. Freedom of religion and belief is a basic human right across civilized states. The Constitution of India and the Declaration of Human Rights guarantees every person right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion which includes freedom from religion, freedom to change religion and belief. The freedom of conscience means that a person is free to entertain any belief or doctrine regarded by him/her as conducive to his/her spiritual well being. Religion and thought constitute the most intrinsic part of human nature. This implies that State cannot enquire into or take notice of a persons religious or moral beliefs. However, reasonable restrictions can be imposed upon the external manifestation of thought, conscience, religion and belief to protect public safety, public order, health, morality and fundamental right of others. It follows that no person can be compelled to profess a particular religion or be bound to remain a member of a particular sect.