ITANAGAR, Feb  22: The Arunachal Democratic Party (ADP) has strongly opposed the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA) 1978, warning that its enforcement could disrupt the social harmony of the state and divide people in the name of religion.
Speaking to the media at the press club on Saturday, President-ADP Tami Pangu stated ADP emphasized that the people of Arunachal Pradesh, from the easternmost village of Longding to the westernmost village of Tawang, are all indigenous and should not be subjected to laws that could threaten their unity and traditional way of life.
“Arunachal Pradesh has always been known for its liberal and secular character, where different cultures, customs, and faiths coexist peacefully. The party believes that the implementation of APFRA 1978 is unnecessary and harmful, as it could create religious polarization similar to what has been witnessed in other states of mainland India,” added Pangu.
He further added, ADP also strongly condemned the recent remarks of the  Chief Minister (HCM) and his council of ministers, who alleged that certain political groups were trying to politicize the issue. The party refuted this claim, stating that since there is no opposition in the state legislative assembly, the question of politicization does not arise.
Back in July 2018, the Chief Minister himself had acknowledged that APFRA 1978 could undermine secularism and was likely targeted towards Christians. At the time, he had promised that the law would be repealed in the next Assembly session. However, in a surprising U-turn on December 27, 2024, he publicly lauded the Act and announced its implementation, triggering widespread concerns among the people, asserted ADP President.
While opposing APFRA 1978, ADP has called upon the state government to take urgent steps to amend and rectify the provisions of Article 371 (H) instead of enforcing the controversial APFRA-1978. The party insists that Arunachal should instead be brought under Article 371 (A) and 371 (G), similar to Nagaland and Mizoram, to ensure stronger constitutional protection for its indigenous people.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
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