The government today clarified that it has no role in religious conversion and re-conversion. Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu told the Lok Sabha that the matter of choosing religion is voluntary.

He said, as far as the cases of reported conversion in States like Gujarat and Kerala are concerned, there is a law which will take its own course.

Earlier, when the House reassembled for proceedings at 4 pm, Mr. Mallikarjun Kharge of Congress raised the issue of religious conversion and demanded Prime Minister’s statement. Mr Kharge alleged that despite Prime Minister’s advice, his cabinet colleagues continued to make provocative statements.

Not satisfied with government response, several opposition members trooped into the well and stick to their demand. Later they staged a walkout. However, amidst the din, the Minister of State for Finance, Jayant Sinha moved the Regional Rural Banks Amendment Bill,2014 for consideration and passing. The House also referred the Lokpal and Lokayukta Amendment Bill,2014 to the Standing Committee.