Tensions escalate in Arunachal as Christian community protests against Freedom of Religion Act

Tensions in Arunachal Pradesh reached new heights on Monday as the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) organized an eight-hour hunger strike in Itanagar, drawing thousands of participants, including several MLAs. 

The protest was held in opposition to the state government’s move to enforce the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978. Protesters displayed posters with messages such as “We demand the repeal of APFRA,” “Do not turn us against one another,” and “There is no honour in enforcing APFRA,” expressing strong discontent over the government's stance.

ACF president Tarh Miri led the protest and voiced concerns that the APFRA violated citizens' fundamental rights to freedom of faith and belief. “We oppose this Act. Anti-conversion laws are enforced in 11 states, and this law is specifically targeted against Christianity,” Miri stated, condemning the Act as discriminatory.

ACF Secretary-General James Techi Tara further emphasized that the enforcement of APFRA would sow division and create distrust among the people. “Changing one’s faith is a personal choice. The Indian Constitution restricts forced conversions. We have never seen a complaint lodged against forced conversion. We demand nothing less than the repeal of this Act,” Tara asserted.

Also Read: CM Khandu urges dialogue over Arunachal Christian Forum's protest against Freedom of Religion Act

The Arunachal Pradesh government, however, defended the move, stating that the Act would be implemented in compliance with a directive issued by the Gauhati High Court. The court had instructed the state to finalize the draft rules for the Act within six months, beginning September 2024. Chief Minister Pema Khandu attempted to reassure the public by clarifying that the rules being framed under the High Court's guidance were intended to protect indigenous faiths and were not aimed at targeting any specific religion.

“The rules are being framed in deference to the High Court’s order to provide more protection to Indigenous faiths,” Khandu explained, adding that he would involve the state’s Indigenous affairs minister and home minister to deliberate with all stakeholders on the matter.

Despite the government’s explanation, the ACF criticized Khandu’s position, accusing him of double standards. Miri pointed out that in 2018, the Chief Minister had pledged to repeal the APFRA, yet in 2024, he was supporting its implementation. “We don’t entertain his statement. In 2018, he himself had announced that he would repeal this draconian law. But now, he says it will be enforced. This is his double standard,” Miri remarked.

The ongoing protests have sparked a broader debate in Arunachal Pradesh about religious freedom, indigenous rights, and the government's role in regulating religious conversions. As the standoff continues, the controversy surrounding the APFRA is likely to remain a significant issue in the state’s political landscape.