The Congress party in Arunachal Pradesh has raised concerns over escalating religious tensions as thousands of Christians protested against the BJP-led government’s decision to revive the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978. The protest, organized by the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF), saw over 20,000 Christians from across the state gathering outside the capital to oppose the move. The BJP government, led by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, has decided to frame and implement rules under the decades-old law following a directive from the Itanagar bench of the Gauhati High Court. The Congress party has strongly criticized the government’s decision, calling it an assault on secularism and minority rights. Party leaders argued that reviving the law after 46 years is unnecessary and could disrupt communal harmony in the state.
“The BJP government is deliberately provoking religious discord,” Congress leaders said in a statement, accusing the ruling party of failing to engage in discussions with affected communities before pushing forward with the implementation of the Act. Christian organizations fear that enforcing the APFRA, 1978, which has long remained dormant, will curb religious freedoms and deepen divisions among communities. They argue that the Act, often referred to as an “anti-conversion law,” could be misused to target minority groups. Counter-protests in support of the APFRA have also emerged, with certain groups advocating for its enforcement, further fueling tensions across the state. The issue has led to heated debates, widespread social media discussions, and increasing polarization among religious and tribal communities.
With rising concerns over communal unrest, the Congress party has urged the BJP-led government to immediately halt its plans and engage in constructive dialogue with Christian organizations and other stakeholders.“The government must ensure that Arunachal Pradesh remains a state of peace and inclusivity. The revival of this law is unnecessary and could lead to deep divisions,” a Congress spokesperson stated.
