Tura: The National People’s Party (NPP) has passed a resolution demanding the repeal of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, during its National Committee and Annual General Meeting held in Tura on September 2.
The resolution, introduced by NC Executive Member Washi Yalem and seconded by National General Secretary (Organisation) Paknga Bage, was backed by state delegates and senior leaders, who termed the legislation an “infringement of fundamental rights” and a violation of constitutional provisions.
NPP leaders argued that the Act, which seeks to prevent religious conversions through force or inducement, could lead to misuse and chaos in Arunachal Pradesh.
National Working President James K. Sangma called it “draconian” and pointed out that Article 25 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of conscience.
Kerala unit president K.T. Thomas said the Act runs contrary to India’s historical acceptance of multiple faiths, noting that Christianity and Islam entered the country centuries ago.
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“From this perspective, the Act is against the spirit of this nation,” he said.
Party chief Conrad K. Sangma asserted there is “no space for such a law,” warning it could be misused by administrations to target individuals.
“NPP will not accept any law that oppresses or targets minority communities,” he said, adding that the party would take the matter to both the Arunachal Pradesh government and the Centre.
The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, enacted in 1978 to curb conversions by force or fraudulent means, has remained largely dormant due to the absence of implementation rules and political pushback from Christian groups.
