Itanagar, April 30: A peaceful sit-in protest was held at the General Ground in Kharsang in Changlang district on Thursday, with participants calling for the repeal of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978.
The demonstration was organised by the Changlang District Christian Forum under the banner of the Arunachal Christian Forum and saw participation from members of various Christian groups, church bodies and local residents. Protesters gathered with banners and placards, voicing concerns that the legislation infringes on fundamental rights and could affect religious freedom and communal harmony.
Participants alleged that the Act impacts individual liberty and personal choice, and urged authorities to reconsider its implementation. The programme, which began at around 10 am and continued until 2 pm, included prayers, devotional songs and speeches by church leaders and representatives of different organisations.
Speakers at the event emphasised unity and stressed the need to safeguard constitutional rights, while reiterating demands for the withdrawal of the legislation. Organisers stated that the dharna remained peaceful and was intended to draw the government’s attention to the concerns raised by the community.
