ES Reporter 

ITANAGAR, Feb 17: Thousands of Christian believers across Arunachal Pradesh irrespective of denominations staged a hunger strike on Monday under the banner of the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) to protest the state government’s move to implement the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978.
The demonstration, held at Borum, Naharlagun, saw participation from various denominations and even Members of the Legislative Assembly, former Ministers and leaders.
ACF President Tarh Miri, addressing the media, stated that the protest would continue until 5 p.m. as part of their democratic movement against the BJP-led government’s attempt to enforce the 46-year-old Act. He asserted that the act is “draconian in nature” and violates the constitutional right to freedom of religion provided in the Indian constitution.
Despite an invitation for dialogue from Home Minister Mama Natung, who also oversees the Department of Indigenous Affairs, the ACF decided to proceed with the strike, stating that the protest had been planned in advance and could not be called off at the last minute. However, Miri confirmed that the ACF has agreed to meet the minister on February 21 to discuss the issue further and decide on their next steps.
Responding to Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s assurance that “no religion will be harmed” and that the Act would only be implemented after the High Court’s order, Miri dismissed the statement, arguing that the law could be misused against the Christian community.
As tensions escalate, the ACF has announced plans to gherao the State Assembly on March 6, when the controversial Act is expected to be discussed before its implementation.
“We will continue our fight against this outdated law, which has remained dormant for over four decades but is now being pushed forward without addressing our concerns,” Miri asserted.

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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
Phone: 0360-2212313

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