Thu Feb 06 09:55:46 UTC 2025: ## Arunachal Pradesh Christians to Protest Anti-Conversion Law
**GUWAHATI, February 6, 2025** – The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) announced a series of protests against the Arunachal Pradesh government’s decision to implement the 1978 Freedom of Religion Act. The Act, which prohibits religious conversions through force, inducement, or fraud, will be enforced after a four-decade dormancy following a Gauhati High Court directive.
The ACF’s planned protests include a week-long fast beginning February 10th, a mass prayer, and a demonstration at the State Assembly on March 6th, when the Act’s implementation is expected to be discussed. ACF president Tarh Miri stated that the Act, despite its name, restricts religious freedom and violates the principles of secularism.
Miri criticized the state government for its lack of response to the ACF’s concerns, citing unsuccessful attempts to engage with Chief Minister Pema Khandu and other officials. The Act, passed during the Janata Party government in 1978, was reportedly enacted due to concerns about threats to indigenous religions. Successive governments had previously chosen not to enforce the law. The ACF’s protests underscore the growing tensions surrounding religious freedom in the state.
First Piper 