Shillong, Sep 3: The National People’s Party (NPP) passed a resolution demanding the repeal of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (FRA), 1978 during its national committee and annual general meeting held in Tura.
The law was designed to curb religious conversions by force, fraud, or inducement, ostensibly to protect the cultural fabric of Arunachal Pradesh. However, it remained largely dormant due to the absence of implementation rules and resistance from powerful Christian groups.
National Working President James K. Sangma termed the legislation “draconian,” stating that it stands in contradiction to Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of conscience and religion. He warned that such a law could be misused to target individuals under the pretext of protecting indigenous practices.
Executive Member Washi Yalem and National General Secretary (Organisation) Paknga Bage said that the Act violates the fundamental rights of citizens and could trigger social unrest if enforced.
NPP President and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma also voiced strong opposition, warning that such laws could be misused by administrations to selectively target minorities.
“NPP will not accept any legislation that suppresses or discriminates against minority communities. We will demand both the Arunachal government and the Centre to repeal this Act,” he stated.
NPP leaders declared their intent to submit formal appeals to both the Arunachal Pradesh government and New Delhi to ensure the law is scrapped entirely.
