Mai Dol
Itanagar, Apr 3: The Arunachal Youth Parliament convened today, organized by Hills Society under the aegis of the state Department of Youth Affairs, at the DK Convention Hall in the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly. The event brought together students, academicians, and experts to engage in a critical discussion on the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (AFRA). The much-debated legislation was the focal point of a panel discussion featuring prominent voices from academia, cultural institutions, and journalism.
The panel included, author and professor Dr Nabam Nakha Hina, president of the Indigenous Faith & Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh Dr Emi Rumi, and senior journalist Bengia Ajum. Each panelist presented distinct perspectives on the act, sparking a dynamic exchange of ideas.
Diverse perspectives on AFRA
Hina downplayed AFRA’s significance, arguing that it would not have a major impact on religious diversity.
"No religion has ever perished, nor will it," he said. He emphasized that cultural identity is primary, while religion is secondary. Citing his personal experience, he noted that although his parents are Christians, he was never compelled to undergo baptism. He also recalled that in 2010, a Buddhist community had written to the prime minister, voicing concerns about forced conversions.
Rumi offered a contrasting stance, emphasizing the act’s necessity both in 1978 and in the present day.
He pointed to the erosion of indigenous identity, particularly among Arunachali youth who, he claimed, are increasingly unable to speak their native languages. He further highlighted concerns about external religious influences, stating, "AFRA is not just about Hindus, Christians, and Buddhists—it is essential in addressing the growing influence of Islam in our communities. If unchecked, our indigenous identity may be at risk." He also referenced a notice issued to the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) last year, instructing them to refrain from election-related activities, as ACF had declared itself a non-religious institution.
Ajum, argued that religion is a matter of personal choice and that government intervention is unwarranted.
He criticized AFRA as a distraction from pressing socio-economic issues such as employment, infrastructure development, and education, particularly the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) scam. "AFRA may have been necessary in 1978, but today, it serves more as a tool for division than for cultural preservation," he remarked.
Speaking to The Dawnlit Post, a query was raised about Section 3(b) of the act, which classifies Buddhism and Vaishnavism as indigenous.
Rumi responded that since Arunachal Pradesh is part of India and these religions originated within the Indian subcontinent, they are considered indigenous, whereas other religions, viewed as foreign, are not included under the act’s provisions.
Engaged student participation
Students actively participated in the discussion, raising questions asked. Some questioned why protests primarily emerged from the Christian community, while others sought clarity on the definition of "forceful conversion" and how the government intends to ensure unbiased implementation of the act.
Academic presentations and legislative assembly tour
Following the panel discussion, students from various institutions presented research on significant issues. Scholars from Arunachal Law Academy explored "Sustainable Tourism in Arunachal Pradesh: Balancing Economic Growth with Environmental and Cultural Preservation." Arunodaya University students examined "Harnessing Arunachal’s Natural Resources for Sustainable Economic Growth," while representatives from Dera Natung Government College deliberated on "Strengthening Grassroots Democracy in Arunachal Pradesh: The Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions."
The event concluded with a guided tour of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, where students explored assembly chambers, exhibits, and galleries. An interactive question answer round on the state’s legislative history further enriched their experience.
