State Permission not Required for Religious Prayer Meetings in Private Premises: Allahabad High Court

The Allahabad High Court has held that no prior permission is required to conduct a religious prayer meeting within private premises, as it falls under the fundamental right to freedom of religion guaranteed by Article 25 of the Constitution.

The Court noted that there is no legal prohibition on such gatherings and that equal protection of law must be extended without religious discrimination.

However, it clarified that permission or police intimation would be necessary if the prayer meeting spills over into public roads or public property.

The Court also emphasised the State’s duty to ensure protection of life and property.

[Maranatha Full Gospel Ministries v. State of UP & 2 Ors.]