ITANAGAR, Feb 15: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday clarified that the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, is not intended to target any religious community but is aimed at safeguarding the interests of the indigenous population of the state.
His remarks come amid growing opposition to the Act, with the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) announcing a statewide hunger strike on February 17 in protest against its enforcement.
"The process of framing rules is being carried out in compliance with a directive from the High Court, as the Act, being old legislation, did not have a formal set of rules. These rules are not directed against any religion—be it Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, or Islam. Instead, they are intended to protect the indigenous people," Khandu said.
He further stated that he would request the state's Indigenous Affairs Minister to convene a meeting with all stakeholders to discuss the issue.
Responding to the planned protests by ACF, Khandu asserted that demonstrations were unnecessary and that any concerns could be addressed through dialogue.
"The Act will not harm anyone," he said.