Itanagar, June 3: The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) has issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Arunachal Pradesh government, demanding the immediate suspension of the process of framing and notifying rules under the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978. The forum has warned that failure to address its concerns could lead to statewide democratic protests, including mass rallies and bandh calls.
In a memorandum submitted to Chief Minister Pema Khandu, the ACF expressed strong opposition to the government’s move to operationalise the decades-old legislation through rule-making. It argued that the implementation of the Act could have serious implications for constitutional rights, religious freedom, and social harmony in the state.
The forum said the Christian community in Arunachal Pradesh is apprehensive that the ongoing process, led by the High-Powered Committee (HPC), has been undertaken in undue haste, triggering resentment among sections of the population. It alleged that repeated appeals from religious bodies, civil society organisations and citizens for wider consultation have not been adequately considered.
The ACF maintained that any legislation impacting religious freedom and inter-community relations should be preceded by inclusive consultations involving all stakeholders. It warned that proceeding without consensus could lead to avoidable tensions and unrest.
The memorandum placed three key demands before the government: suspension of the rule-making process under APFRA-1978, a commitment not to notify or enforce the rules, and a public declaration halting the process along with initiation of broader consultations, including discussions on possible repeal of the Act.
The forum has sought a formal response within 15 days and cautioned that failure to respond may lead to protests, including statewide rallies and bandh calls aimed at safeguarding community rights and maintaining social harmony.
Copies of the memorandum were also submitted to the Governor, the Chief Secretary and media organisations, adding further weight to the ongoing debate around the legislation. APFRA, enacted in 1978 to prohibit forced, induced or fraudulent conversions, remained largely inactive for decades due to the absence of notified rules, but recent efforts by the state government to operationalise it have reignited political and social discussions across Arunachal Pradesh.
