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

Amid growing protests by the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) against the implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, Chief Minister Pema Khandu has urged for dialogue and reassured that the newly framed rules under the Act are not against any religious community.

The legislation, enacted 46 years ago during the tenure of former chief minister P K Thungon, seeks to prohibit forced conversions through inducement or fraudulent means. It prescribes penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment and fines up to Rs 10,000 for violations.

Speaking on the issue, CM Khandu clarified that the process of making rules is being undertaken as per the directive of the High Court, since the Act, being old legislation, lacked a formal set of rules. He emphasized that the formulation of rules does not target any religious group, including Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, or Muslims. Instead, the intent is to provide greater support to the indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh. 

He also requested government officials to engage in discussions with all stakeholders to ensure a balanced and inclusive approach.

In response to the planned protest, CM Khandu appealed to the Arunachal Christian Forum to reconsider its stance, assuring them that the rules will not infringe upon anyone’s religious rights or freedoms.

Also Read: Arunachal CM Pema Khandu: "Soon we will have a properly structured Freedom of Religion Act"

The Arunachal Christian Forum has announced a series of demonstrations in opposition to the Act’s implementation, calling for its repeal. 

The forum has declared a mass protest on March 6, coinciding with the first day of the budget session of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly. The ACF has described the law as "unconstitutional" and claims it has been resisting its enforcement for 46 years.

ACF President Tarh Miri has called upon the Christian community in the state to observe a week-long period of prayer and fasting from February 10 to 17 as a symbolic form of protest. During this period, ACF has advised its followers to refrain from attending social gatherings such as birthdays and picnics. Additionally, a hunger strike is scheduled to take place at the Tennis Court in Itanagar on February 17 to intensify their agitation.

Miri further disclosed that the ACF had previously submitted a formal representation to the Chief Minister’s Office, but no resolution has been reached thus far.

The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, of 1978, was passed by the first Legislative Assembly of the state with the objective of restricting religious conversions carried out through force, fraud, or inducement. However, its enforcement has faced opposition from various religious groups, particularly the Christian community, who argue that it violates the fundamental right to religious freedom.

As tensions mount, the state government continues to emphasize dialogue and cooperation, seeking a resolution that accommodates all communities while upholding constitutional principles.