CHAYANGTAJO, Feb 26: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Wednesday reiterated that the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, is not directed against any particular religion but is intended to protect the state's indigenous cultural heritage. Addressing the Golden Jubilee celebration of Nyokum in Chayangtajo, East Kameng district, Khandu said the Act aims to preserve traditions and festivals that define the identity of Arunachal’s tribal communities.
Dressed in Nyishi traditional attire, Khandu clarified that the Act has existed since 1978 but remained without defined rules. He said that following a directive from the High Court, the state government is in the process of framing the rules, ensuring that no provision goes against or favors any religion. He urged people not to be misled about its intent.
“The state does not interfere with an individual's right to practice any religion. However, it is our collective responsibility to protect and preserve our indigenous identity and cultural heritage,” he said. He encouraged organizations, communities, or individuals seeking clarity on the Act to approach Home Minister Mama Natung. He assured that all concerns and suggestions would be taken into account while drafting the rules.
Khandu emphasized that Nyokum is a cultural identity for the Nyishi community and urged elders to ensure that traditional knowledge and practices are passed on to younger generations. He noted that the Golden Jubilee celebration is a historic moment that will be remembered by future generations.
Announcing new projects worth Rs 110 crore for the region, Khandu said the details of the sanctioned schemes would be handed over to local legislator Hayang Mangfi. Addressing connectivity issues in Chayangtajo, he informed that six road projects totaling 2,178 km are being vetted by the central government under inter-corridor roads. Among them, the 391 km Itanagar-Seijosa-Pakkekessang-Seppa-Chayangtajo-Nyapin road is in its final stage of approval. He assured that he would pursue the project with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for early implementation.
Additionally, Khandu said the Frontier Highway, once completed, would provide improved access to remote areas of East Kameng. He announced funding support for the development of the festival ground, construction of a mini-secretariat, a sustainable drinking water project, and power transmission upgrades, along with new road connectivity for unlinked villages.
During his visit, Khandu inaugurated eight completed projects worth Rs 26.50 crore and laid the foundation stones for projects valued at Rs 223.50 crore, mostly under the Vibrant Village Programme.