The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF), a prominent Christian body in Arunachal Pradesh, staged a mass hunger strike on Monday across multiple district and sub-divisional headquarters, demanding the repeal of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978. The forum has termed the law “discriminatory” and “unconstitutional.”
The protest follows the state government’s recent move to enforce the law, which had remained dormant for decades. This decision came after the Gauhati High Court, in September 2024, directed the government to frame rules for its implementation within six months.
Originally introduced to prevent forced religious conversions through coercion or inducement, the Act prescribes penalties of up to two years in prison and a fine of ₹10,000 for violations. However, it lacked a framework for enforcement until the recent court ruling prompted renewed efforts to implement it.
The ACF has alleged that the law unfairly targets the Christian community, which makes up 30.26% of Arunachal Pradesh’s population, as per the 2011 Census.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu defended the government’s decision, stating that it complies with the court’s directive and aims to protect indigenous faiths. He also maintained that the law does not target any specific religious group.
The state government has invited the ACF for talks on February 21, but the forum has insisted on a complete repeal of the Act and has refused to compromise. It has also announced further demonstrations, including a march to the state Assembly on March 6, coinciding with the legislative session where discussions on the law are expected.
“We don’t think the matter will be resolved over talks, and we will not settle for anything less than a repeal of the Act,” said ACF Secretary General James Techi Tara.
