This is a pretty seismic policy shift in how df-ing, er, “removal” will be done. As written, pretty much the only people who will ever be “removed” from this point forward are brazen apostates
Not really. As you astutely pointed out above, the central reason for shhunning is to deny freedom of religion to the public. I believe this has always been the central reason for the policy. For the poor soul who, after baptism happens to figure out that according to WT Jesus isn't your Mediator, and the New Covenant is "forgiveness of sins" (Mt. 26:27-28), and not government leadership positions, nothing has changed.
Try walking into a Kingdom Hall and telling your relatives that Jesus is your personal savior and that you are born again and see what happens. They will be screaming that you have a demon.