ITANAGAR, 2 Jun: The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) and the Confederation of Churches of Arunachal Pradesh (CCAP) have submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Pema Khandu, expressing “strongest opposition” to the ongoing process of framing and notification of rules under the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act(APFRA), 1978, and sought immediate halt to the process.

The memorandum stated, “The Christian community of Arunachal Pradesh is deeply concerned that the implementation of the Act through the framing of rules may have far-reaching consequences affecting constitutional rights, religious freedom, social harmony, and peaceful coexistence of the people of Arunachal Pradesh. The present action of the high-powered committee on APFRA, 1978, undertaken without adequate public consultation, has generated widespread apprehension and resentment among large sections of the population.”

The memorandum further stated that, despite public concerns and repeated appeals from the ACF and various other organisations, religious bodies, and citizens, the state government appears determined to proceed with the framing and notification of the rules.

“Such action, without broad consensus and meaningful consultation with all stakeholders, is likely to create avoidable tension and unrest within the state,” the memorandum said.

The ACF has served 15 days’ ultimatum to the state government and demanded that the entire process of framing and notification of the rules under APFRA, 1978 be immediately suspended and no notification, implementation, or enforcement of the proposed rules be undertaken.

The ACF stated that the government should publicly declare its decision to halt the process and initiate comprehensive consultations on repealing APFRA, 1978 with all affected stakeholders.

“The ACF will go for democratic protest through mass rally or, if necessary, bandh call throughout the state if our demands are not met within the stipulated time,” the memorandum read.