Itanagar, April 30, 2026: Thousands of members of the Christian community across Arunachal Pradesh participated in peaceful demonstrations on Thursday, demanding the repeal of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (AFRA), 1978, which they believe could adversely affect religious freedom and communal harmony in the state.
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| Christian protesters raise slogans during a peaceful demonstration in Arunachal Pradesh demanding repeal of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (AFRA), 1978, citing concerns over religious freedom. |
The largest protest was organized by the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) at the Tennis Court in Itanagar, where hundreds of participants gathered for a sit-in demonstration. Protesters carried placards, sang hymns, and raised slogans calling for the repeal of the Act. Community leaders and speakers at the gathering expressed concern that the implementation of the legislation could create divisions among communities and undermine the constitutional right to freely practice and propagate religion.
The protests were not limited to the state capital. Similar demonstrations were held in several districts, including Namsai, Seppa, Ziro, Roing, Koloriang, and Seijosa, indicating widespread participation by Christian organizations and church groups across Arunachal Pradesh.
In Namsai district, members of the Namsai Christian Forum organized a peaceful dharna at Lekang Square in Mahadevpur. Participants argued that the Act threatens personal liberty and fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of India. Speakers emphasized the importance of preserving religious freedom and maintaining communal harmony among the diverse communities of the state.
Meanwhile, in Seijosa under Pakke Kessang district, around 500 Christians joined a sit-in protest, raising slogans such as “Repeal APFRA 1978” and “Save Arunachal.” Community leaders stated that the movement was aimed at safeguarding equality, dignity, and the democratic right of individuals to practice their faith without fear or restriction.
Organizers repeatedly stressed that the demonstrations remained peaceful and disciplined throughout the day. Protesters engaged in prayer sessions, hymn singing, and public speeches while urging the government to engage in dialogue with stakeholders before proceeding with any implementation of the Act.
The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, was enacted to prohibit religious conversions through force, fraud, or inducement. The legislation provides penalties for violations and authorizes the government to regulate religious conversions. However, although the Act was passed nearly five decades ago, the detailed rules necessary for its implementation were not framed for many years, effectively leaving the law dormant.
The recent move to frame and implement rules under the Act has generated concern among sections of the Christian community. Church organizations and community leaders argue that strict enforcement could create uncertainty around religious activities, potentially discourage evangelism, and lead to misuse against religious minorities. They contend that the Constitution guarantees every citizen the freedom to profess, practice, and propagate religion, and fear that the law could infringe upon these rights.
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At the same time, supporters of the legislation maintain that the Act is intended to prevent conversions carried out through coercion, fraud, or inducement and to protect indigenous faiths, traditions, and cultural practices. They argue that the law seeks to preserve the unique cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh while ensuring that religious conversions occur voluntarily.
Community leaders participating in Thursday’s protests reiterated that their movement is not directed against any particular religion or community but is focused on protecting constitutional rights and religious freedom. They also warned that democratic and peaceful protests would continue until the government addresses their concerns and reconsiders the future of the Act.
The demonstrations concluded peacefully across the state, with organizers calling for constructive dialogue between the government, civil society organizations, and religious groups to find an amicable solution that upholds both religious freedom and social harmony in Arunachal Pradesh.
