Urgent: Christian Forum to Confront Arunachal’s 1978 Anti-Conversion Law with State Home Minister Tomorrow
Amid rising tensions over the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978, the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) is set to meet Home Minister Mama Natung to address their concerns, officials confirmed on Thursday. The ACF has been vocal in its opposition to the implementation of the Act, claiming it could adversely affect the Christian community in the state, which constitutes 30.26% of the population according to the 2011 census.
The Home Minister has appealed to the ACF to pause their protests, including an eight-hour hunger strike held on February 17 at NIIS Nyokum Ground, and join him for discussions on Friday, February 21. ACF President Tarh Miri has confirmed the meeting, signaling a potential dialogue between the state government and the Christian community to resolve the ongoing conflict.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu, speaking at the 39th Statehood Day celebrations in Itanagar, urged the public to avoid misinterpreting the Act. He emphasized that the APFRA, 1978, is intended to preserve the state’s cultural heritage rather than oppose any religion. The Act, passed in 1978 when Arunachal Pradesh was a Union Territory under the first chief minister, P.K. Thungon, had not seen rule formulation until a recent directive from the Gauhati High Court. The court instructed the state government to draft the rules within six months, a process currently underway.
Khandu reassured that the Act aims for collective welfare, expressing regret over its politicization and misrepresentation on social media, which he claims threatens peace and harmony in the region. The Chief Minister reiterated that the government remains open to discussions to dispel any misconceptions and foster understanding.
This development marks a pivotal moment as the state balances religious sentiments with legislative directives, seeking a resolution that respects both cultural integrity and community concerns.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/arunachal-1978-anti-conversion-law-christian-forum-to-meet-state-home-minister-tomorrow
Category : North-East
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Publish Date: 2025-02-20 22:38:00
