The article explores how children in India are often subjected to religious coercion—both at home and in educational settings—under the guise of cultural or parental authority. Through constitutional provisions, case law, and international conventions like the UNCRC, the piece argues for a more robust legal and policy framework to uphold children's rights to autonomy, dignity, and cognitive development. It delves into issues such as Bal Diksha, the quality of education in religious institutions like madrasas and gurukuls, and the urgent need for the State to fulfil its parens patriae role. The piece also makes forward-looking recommendations to ensure that religious freedom does not come at the cost of children’s welfare.