ITANAGAR : Former minister Bida Taku on Wednesday questioned the Arunachal Christian Forum’s (ACF) decision to issue a 15-day ultimatum to the state government seeking an immediate halt to the framing and notification of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978 Rules. He alleged that the forum’s approach had created confusion among Christian believers in the state.
Addressing a press conference at the Arunachal Press Club here, Taku said the process of implementing the APFRA Rules requires broader public consultation and detailed discussions among all stakeholders before any final decision is taken. He urged the state government to allow a 10-day grace period to facilitate constructive dialogue on the issue.
Taku claimed that the ultimatum issued by the ACF was technically flawed, alleging that the forum had failed to adequately examine the Act and identify the specific provisions that could adversely affect the Christian community.
According to him, a significant section of the Christian community in Arunachal Pradesh has been demanding the complete repeal of the APFRA, 1978. However, he alleged that the forum had shifted focus away from the core demand for repeal.
He further alleged that after objections raised by the ACF, the state government replaced Indigenous Affairs Minister Mama Natung as chairman of the High-Powered Committee (HPC) and appointed retired Gauhati High Court judge Justice Brojendra Prasad Katakey to head the panel.
Questioning the forum’s position, Taku asked why ACF representatives had participated in consultations on the draft rules and invited Justice Katakey for discussions if their primary demand was the outright repeal of the Act.
“What does the ACF actually want?” he asked, adding that the forum should focus on identifying and addressing provisions of the Act that may adversely affect the Christian community rather than creating uncertainty among believers.
Taku maintained that greater clarity, wider consultation and consensus among stakeholders are essential before any decision is taken on the implementation of the APFRA Rules.
