The Arunachal Christian Forum led a mass protest against the anti-conversion law, with over two lakh demonstrators raising concerns over religious freedom. The state government insists the Act protects cultural heritage.
BY PC Bureau
Thousands of people, led by the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF), staged a peaceful demonstration near Itanagar, protesting against the implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978. The legislation, widely regarded as an anti-conversion law, has sparked concerns among Christian communities in the state. ACF President Tarh Miri stated that more than two lakh Christians, representing various denominations, gathered at Borum, near the state capital, to voice their opposition.
The ACF, the apex Christian body in Arunachal Pradesh, has strongly opposed the Act, arguing that its implementation would curtail religious freedom and discriminate against Christians in the state. The Forum had initially planned to gherao the State Assembly, where the Budget Session is currently in progress. However, after reconsideration, they sought permission to hold their protest at the tennis court in Itanagar, but their request was denied.
The #ArunachalChristianForum has staged the first phase of its democratic movement against the alleged framing of rules for the anti-conversion law in the state, in Borum near Itanagar. Cutting across denominations, a large number of #Christians have gathered. Initially, the #ACF… pic.twitter.com/oXC6CTflbd
— The Arunachal Times (@arunachaltimes_) March 6, 2025
In continuation of their protests, the ACF also staged an eight-hour hunger strike on February 17 at NIIS Nyokum Ground in Borum, Naharlagun Circle.
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On February 21, senior ACF leaders, led by Tarh Miri, held discussions with State Home Minister Mama Natung. However, the meeting ended without a resolution.
Following the meeting, Miri revealed that the Home Minister assured continued dialogue but stated that the government was bound by the Gauhati High Court’s directive to frame rules for the Act.
“The Home Minister informed us that the state government has no choice but to frame the rules for APFRA, 1978, as per the Gauhati High Court’s order. However, he assured us that the government would continue discussions with the ACF,” Miri told IANS.
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Government’s Stand on APFRA, 1978
In response to growing concerns, Chief Minister Pema Khandu urged citizens not to misinterpret the Act, which was first passed in 1978 when P.K. Thungon was the Chief Minister, and Arunachal Pradesh was still a Union Territory. He clarified that the law does not target any religion but is meant to preserve the state’s cultural heritage.
Khandu explained that for over four decades, the Act remained a two-page document without any rules. However, after an individual challenged it in the Gauhati High Court, the Itanagar Bench directed the state government to frame rules within six months. The government is currently working on an initial draft.
“This Act is not intended to suppress any religious group but to protect Arunachal Pradesh’s unique cultural fabric. Unfortunately, some individuals are spreading misinformation, creating unnecessary political and religious tensions,” Khandu said.
The Chief Minister further stated that the government remains open to dialogue and will address any concerns. “Misinformation on social and mainstream media is disrupting communal harmony. We encourage open discussions to clear any doubts,” he added.
Despite reassurances from the state government, the ACF and various Christian groups remain firm in their opposition to APFRA’s implementation. The protest has intensified pressure on the government, raising questions about whether it will reconsider its stance or proceed with enforcing the High Court’s directive.
Further rounds of discussions between the ACF and the state government are expected in the coming weeks.
