Editor,
In the Northeast, where diversity thrives, Arunachal Pradesh stands as a unique blend of cultures, languages, and traditions. Yet, a shadow looms over this harmony – the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978 – a law that, instead of protecting, restricts the fundamental rights of individuals by requiring them to seek official permission before converting to another religion. This outdated legislation raises a crucial question: Should the government dictate one’s faith, or should individuals be free to choose their own path?
Religion has never been the defining factor of our identity; language has been. Take Mizoram, for instance, where almost everyone speaks Mizo, and the majority follow Christianity. Their shared language fosters a strong cultural bond, ensuring that their traditions remain intact. Even fellow Northeasterners struggle to understand Mizo, yet their unity remains unquestioned.
Contrast this with Arunachal – a land of over 100 tribes and more than 50 languages. Here, linguistic diversity is so vast that tribes often rely on Hindi and English as common means of communication. This very diversity underscores the need for the government to preserve indigenous dialects, not impose restrictions on religious freedom.
Despite differences in religious beliefs, Arunachal’s people take immense pride in their traditions. Festivals like Nyokum, Boori Boot, Dree, Solung, Mopin, Losar, Si-Donyi, Sangken, Chalo Loku, Oriah, and Reh are celebrated with great fervour, often organised and attended by Christians. These events transcend religious boundaries, proving that faith does not erode cultural identity. If anything, Arunachal is a testament to religious coexistence.
Yet, the Freedom of Religion Act, 1978 sends a different message – one of control and discrimination. Why should an individual require the deputy commissioner’s permission to change their faith? The Indian Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of religion, allowing every citizen to practice, propagate, and preach their beliefs without fear. So why does this law exist in a state that prides itself on peace and diversity?
Let us be clear – no indigenous faith is under threat in Arunachal. But the Christian community is being unfairly targeted. Arunachal has always been a peaceful state, where people respect one another’s choices. However, laws like these risk pushing us toward the troubling trends seen in some mainland states, where religious persecution is rampant, and authorities remain silent spectators. Is this the future we want for Arunachal?
If the government truly wishes to protect Arunachal’s cultural fabric, it must prioritise preserving local languages and traditions instead of policing personal faith. The right to choose one’s religion is a fundamental right, and no authority should stand in the way of personal belief.
We urge the state government to reconsider this archaic and discriminatory law. Let Arunachal remain a beacon of unity, where faith is personal and peace is paramount. Do not divide us – protect our freedom, our rights, and our harmony.
Concerned citizen