ES Reporter 

ITANAGAR, Feb 21: Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978 (APFRA-1978), the state government, led by Home Minister and Minister of the Department of Indigenous Affairs (DIA) Mama Natung, held discussions with the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) here at the State Civil Secretariat on Friday.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, the Home Minister stated that a detailed discussion, including a PowerPoint presentation on APFRA-1978, was held with ACF representatives. He assured that the Act does not contain provisions that target Christianity or any other religion. "The Act is only meant to safeguard indigenous rights, regardless of one's religious beliefs," he said, emphasizing that the government has no intention of creating discord among communities.
The minister further urged ACF members to thoroughly review the Act and assured that if any clause requires amendment, the government is open to discussion.
"We have asked ACF to examine the Act, and if they find any provisions that need changes, we are ready to work on them," Natung added.
Law Minister Kento Jini, who was also part of the meeting, reiterated that the Act does not pose a threat to any religious group.
However, ACF representatives expressed their opposition to the legislation. ACF President Tarh Miri acknowledged the government's invitation for discussions but made it clear that the forum does not support the implementation of the Act. "We will discuss the matter with our members and respond to the government’s request accordingly," he stated.
ACF Secretary General James Techi Tara took a firmer stance, reaffirming the forum's demand for a complete repeal of APFRA-1978. "We remain steadfast in our demand for the full repeal of the Act. The democratic movement against it, scheduled for March 6, will continue as planned," he asserted.

---

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

<< Back to News List