In a first of its kind, recently two residents of Anjaw HQ Hawai lodged a complaint with the district’s deputy commissioner, alleging that a government-funded building in Hawai – the Indigenous Tribal Culture Centre – which is meant exclusively for preservation, protection and promotion of the indigenous culture, is being used for non-indigenous activities. They alleged that the centre is being used for promotion of faith that is similar to Hinduism and which is completely alien to the indigenous Mishmi faith. This is the first time that citizens have raised concern over an attempt to distort the ancient tribal faith in the state. It is a good sign that the younger generation is debating and discussing distortion of tribal faith. Earlier, the discussion only concentrated on religious conversion.
Arunachal’s tribal faith and culture are considered to be unique. There is a growing need to safeguard the dying tribal culture and religion. Even though religion is a deeply personal choice, the fast-eroding tribal faith has been a matter of concern. Religious conversion and distortion of ancient tribal faith are emerging as a big challenge towards ancient forms of tribal faith. The Christian missionaries have managed to convert a large number of the tribal populations. On the other hand, in the guise of saving tribal faith, the Hindu missionaries have completely distorted tribal faith and slowly turned it into a sub-group of Hinduism. There are very few populations who follow the tribal faith in its purest form. The department of indigenous affairs should concentrate in saving and promoting the tribal faith in its purest form. The constitution guarantees freedom to choose any religion. However, the tribal faith practiced in Arunachal is one of the last few remaining in the world. Effort should be made to promote and preserve the tribal faith in its purest form. Both conversion and distortion of tribal faith should be considered as a threat to the very existence of the unique ancient tribal faith of the state.