Arunachal’s Religious Freedom Act not against any faith: CM Khandu amid Christian protests
Against the backdrop of Christian protests, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Wednesday reaffirmed that the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978 (APFRA) does not target any religion. Addressing a vibrant gathering at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Nyokum—the Nyishi community’s most significant festival—in Chayangtajo, East Kameng district, Khandu emphasized that the Act is meant to preserve indigenous culture, not restrict religious freedom.
Wearing traditional Nyishi attire, Khandu stated, “The Act has existed since 1978, but lacked specific rules. Following the Hon’ble High Court’s directive, we are framing the rules now, ensuring they neither favour nor oppose any religion.”
The Chief Minister reiterated that practising any faith is a personal choice and the state has no intention to interfere. However, he stressed the collective responsibility of the government and citizens to protect Arunachal’s indigenous identity. He urged community elders to pass down cultural traditions like Nyokum to younger generations.
For those seeking clarity on the Act, Khandu encouraged them to approach Home Minister Mama Natung, assuring that all concerns and suggestions would be considered while drafting the final rules.
As a Nyokum gift, Khandu announced Rs 110 crore worth of new projects for the region. He assured major improvements in connectivity, revealing that six road projects spanning 2,178 km are being vetted by the central government.
One of the key projects in the final approval stage is the 391 km Itanagar-Seijosa-Pakkekessang-Seppa-Chayangtajo-Nyapin road, which will boost inter-district connectivity. He also highlighted the Frontier Highway, a game-changer for connecting remote areas of East Kameng.
Beyond infrastructure, Khandu pledged funding for festival ground development, mini-secretariat construction, sustainable drinking water projects, upgrading power transmission, connecting remote villages with better roads and Rs 250 Crore Worth of Inaugurations & new projects.
During his visit, Khandu inaugurated eight projects worth Rs 26.50 crore and laid foundation stones for projects worth Rs 223.50 crore under the Vibrant Village Programme.
The Nyokum celebrations were also attended by Industries Minister Nyato Dukam, Advisor to CM & former Home Minister Bamang Felix, and local legislator Hayang Mangfi, among others.
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