MUMBAI, Aug. 19 -- The state government has announced that it will bring into force the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act from August 28, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan. A notification to this effect was issued by the home department on Monday. President Draupadi Murmu gave her assent to the bill two weeks ago, after which the government issued the notification under section 1(2) of the Act. The bill makes offences related to unlawful religious conversion cognisable and non-bailable, with punishment of up to seven years' imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs.1 lakh. In cases of repeated offences, the punishment may extend to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs.7 lakh. The punishment will be seven years' imprisonment and a fine of Rs.5 lakh if the victim belongs to the Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), is a woman, or a person of unsound mind. Similar punishment has been prescribed for mass conversions and for institutions or organisations involved in such activities. The bill also makes it mandatory for individuals intending to convert their religion to declare their intention at least 60 days in advance and submit a declaration within 21 days after the conversion is completed....