Itanagar, Mar 20: Rural Development and Panchayat Raj minister, Ojing Tasing, on Thursday urged the Christian community in Arunachal Pradesh to reconsider their demand for the repeal of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978.
Speaking to reporters, Tasing emphasized that the Act is meant to protect all religions from fraudulent conversions and is not targeted at any particular faith.
He assured that the government will engage with all stakeholders, including Christian representatives, before framing any rules under the act.
The minister reiterated that the inclusive nature of the current government ensures that every voice will be heard and that no harm will come to Christian believers.
“We will reach out to all communities and religious groups before finalizing any provisions of the act. This government is committed to taking all opinions into account, and I appeal to Christian believers to take their time and avoid making hasty decisions,” Tasing stated.
The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, was originally introduced to prevent forced religious conversions through coercion or inducement. The law prescribes strict penalties, including up to two years in prison and a fine of Rs 10,000 for violations. However, despite its existence for over four decades, it lacked the necessary framework for implementation.
On March 12, Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced that the state will seek a High Court extension to finalize rules for the 1978 Freedom of Religion Act following statewide protests by Christian believers.
He had also stated that a committee with various religious groups will be formed for wider consultation and assured citizens of their right to challenge the rules in court.
