Editor,
Chief Minister Pema Khandu reiterated on the Statehood Day that the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978 is aimed at strengthening indigenous culture and is not targeted against any religious group. But the concerns of Christian groups have not diminished.
If the APFRA is really not targeting Christianity, then the CM should clearly explain in public that this law will not be enforced against Christians. To be clear, Christians can organise activities such as prayers and healing at any place and on any occasion without the permission of any local administration. Christians have the freedom to preach, and people of other religious beliefs have the freedom to accept or not accept. If an indigenous tribal person is influenced by Christianity and converts to Christianity, is it a forced conversion? If an indigenous tribal person accepts the help of a pastor, is it an inducement of benefits?
For many years, Christians and indigenous tribals have lived in harmony. It would be wise to maintain the status quo of the APFRA. There is no need to make strict rules which would destroy the current harmonious atmosphere.
Lohit Sharma