Tura, Sept 3: The National People’s Party (NPP), during its National Committee and Annual General Meeting held in Tura on September 2, passed a resolution demanding the repeal of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (FRA), 1978, calling it “draconian” and a violation of constitutional rights.
The resolution, moved by executive member Washi Yalem and seconded by national general secretary (organisation) Paknga Bage, was strongly supported by senior leaders from across state units.
Party leaders argued that the Act infringes on the fundamental right to freedom of conscience guaranteed under Article 25 of the Constitution.
National Working President James K. Sangma said the Act “should be repealed for its draconian nature” and warned that its implementation could lead to misuse of existing laws. “As a political party, NPP is against this Act, which is an infringement of the rights of individuals,” he asserted.
K.T. Thomas, president of NPP’s Kerala unit, said the legislation was “against the spirit of the country,” noting that India has historically been home to diverse faiths. “Conversion was happening throughout Indian history… from this perspective, the Act is against the spirit of this nation,” he said.
NPP president Conrad K. Sangma also came out strongly against the law, stating: “The danger of such an Act is that certain administrations may misuse the law to target individuals. For us as a party, we have to stand against this Act, and as a united force we should demand the repeal of this Act.” He further stressed that the party “will not accept any law that will oppress and target certain minority communities.”
The Arunachal Pradesh FRA, enacted in 1978 to prevent conversions through force, inducement, or fraudulent means, has largely remained dormant for decades due to political pressure and the absence of implementation rules.
The NPP announced it would prepare detailed papers to seek the Arunachal Pradesh government’s intervention for repeal and approach the Centre to prevent its enforcement.
, during its National Committee and Annual General Meeting held in Tura on September 2, passed a resolution demanding the repeal of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (FRA), 1978, calling it “draconian” and a violation of constitutional rights.){kind=link}