"Wherever the anti-conversion law, ironically officially called the Freedom of Religion Act, was passed, it became a justification for the persecution of minorities and other marginalised identities," said the repeal petition.

The petition was initiated by the National Solidarity Forum, a network of groups and individuals formed in response to the anti-Christian Kandhamal riots in 2007-08.

"The attacks on minorities grew sharply in recent years since this law was used as a weapon targeting the dignity of Christians and Muslims, particularly belonging to Dalits, Adivasis and women," added the petition - which was addressed to Indian President Ram Nath Kovind.

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