An attempt has been made to explain, about the genesis of new religious movements in Russia. Further it discusses the causes like socio-economic and political crises which led to dissolution of USSR, subsequently led to the emergence of these new movements.

Next section deals with the constitutional framework regarding freedom of conscience guaranteed by the constitution. Further discuss the amendment made in constitution and the introduction of the law of 1997. At last this paper discusses the effects of new religious movements on Russian society.