ES Reporter 

ITANAGAR/ANJAW, Feb 15: Chief Minister Pema Khandu has reassured the public that the newly framed rules under the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, are not aimed at targeting any religious community. The legislation, initially enacted 46 years ago during the tenure of former chief minister P K Thungon, seeks to curb forced religious conversions through inducement or fraudulent means. Violations of the Act carry penalties, including up to a two year imprisonment and fine up to Rs 10,000.
Clarifying the government's stance on the issue, CM Khandu emphasized that the process of formulating rules was in response to the directive of the High Court. He explained that the Act, being an old piece of legislation, lacked a formal set of rules, which is now being addressed. The Chief Minister stressed that the intention behind the new rules is not to target any specific religious group—be it Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, or Muslims—but rather to offer greater support to the indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh.
Khandu while speaking to the media in Anjaw on Saturday, also informed that a proper discussion with all government officials, stake holders and religious leaders will be held to ensure that the process remains balanced and inclusive. In light of the opposition to the Act, the Chief Minister appealed to the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) to reconsider its decision for any kind of agitation, reassuring them that the newly framed rules will not infringe upon the religious rights or freedoms of anyone.
Meanwhile, in response to the Act's implementation, the Arunachal Christian Forum has announced plans for mass protests. The forum has called for a series of demonstrations, with the first scheduled for March 6, coinciding with the opening of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly's budget session. The ACF has termed the law "unconstitutional" and reiterated its opposition to the Act, which it has been resisting for 46 years.
ACF President Tarh Miri has called on the Christian community in the state to observe a week of prayer and fasting, starting from February 10 to 17, as a symbolic form of protest. During this period, the forum has advised its followers to refrain from attending social events, such as birthdays and picnics. Additionally, a hunger strike is planned in Itanagar on February 17 to intensify their agitation against the law.
Miri also revealed that the ACF had submitted a formal representation to the Chief Minister's office seeking resolution, but so far, no agreement has been reached.

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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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