Arunachal: Congress reaffirms constitutional stand on APFRA ’78, calls for inclusive governance

The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has reiterated its position on issues surrounding the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978 (APFRA ’78), stating that its approach remains guided by constitutional principles and is not rooted in religion-based politics.

Recalling the earlier press statement issued by APCC President Bosiram Siram in the presence of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) In-Charges for Arunachal Pradesh, the party said its position on the matter has been made unequivocally clear.

According to the APCC, its priority is to uphold constitutional governance, equal rights, religious freedom, and harmonious coexistence among all communities in accordance with the principles of secularism, democracy, and socialism enshrined in the Constitution of India.

The party asserted that any decision or course of action undertaken by the government must remain firmly anchored to the constitutional values and principles that form the foundation of the Republic. It maintained that no policy or administrative measure should deviate from these fundamental commitments.

The APCC further stated that all decisions should take into account the sentiments, aspirations, and concerns of all stakeholders and sections of society. It stressed the importance of protecting and preserving the age-old indigenous tribal rights, customs, traditions, and cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.

At the same time, the Congress emphasised the need to safeguard the human rights, religious freedom, and constitutional guarantees available to indigenous tribal religious minorities under the Constitution.

The party stated that lasting peace, social harmony, and unity can only be achieved through dialogue, mutual respect, constitutional safeguards, and equal protection of the rights and dignity of every citizen.

The APCC maintained that a balanced and inclusive approach remains essential to ensuring social cohesion and protecting the constitutional framework while addressing concerns related to APFRA ’78.