ES Reporter 

DOIMUKH, Mar 1: Hundreds of indigenous faith believers, under the umbrella of the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP), participated in the  Sadbhavana Pad Yatra here at Doimukh, advocating for the implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA) 1978.
Speaking to the media, IFCSAP Spokesperson Pai Dawe asserted that the presence of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Arunachal Pradesh is a response to the spread of Christianity in the state. "Earlier, there were no religious conflicts, but with the entry of Christianity, RSS also came to counter its influence," he stated.
Dawe emphasized that the tribal belief system is inherently secular and has natural similarities with Hindu traditions. "Our indigenous faith shares certain cultural and spiritual connections with Hindu practices, but that does not mean we are aligned with any religion. We respect other faiths, but we follow our own customs and traditions, unlike some religious groups that do not reciprocate this respect," he remarked.
Addressing concerns over the APFRA-1978, Dawe clarified that the Act is not aimed at any particular religion but seeks to curb forced conversions, inducements, and false promises made to persuade individuals to convert. "This law applies to all religions equally. There is no justification for opposing it unless one engages in such unethical practices," he added.
He further highlighted that the directive to implement APFRA-1978 comes from the High Court, not the state government. "If any organization has objections, they should challenge it legally instead of creating unnecessary misunderstandings among the public," he asserted.
Dawe also urged the state government to initiate discussions with IFCSAP, similar to the dialogue held with the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF), ensuring that all stakeholders have an opportunity to present their perspectives on the issue.
Among others, IFCSAP President Dr. Emi Rumi, former AAPSU President- Hawa Bagang, Advocate Pritam Taffo and many others also spoke on the occasion. 

---

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