Arunachal Pradesh’s Religious Conversion Act Revival

January 7, 2025

The Arunachal Pradesh government is reactivating a 1978 Act aimed at preventing forced religious conversions. This move occurs nearly five decades after the Act was enacted by the first Legislative Assembly of the then Union Territory. The Act prohibits religious conversion by coercion, inducement, or deceit, with penalties including imprisonment and fines. The government is now working on framing rules to implement this dormant legislation.

Background of the Act

The 1978 Act emerged during a period of rapid change in Arunachal Pradesh. It was designed to protect the diverse indigenous faiths of the region. The Act mandates that any conversion must be reported to the local Deputy Commissioner, ensuring accountability. The indigenous faiths defined in the Act include various forms of Buddhism, nature worship, and Vaishnavism, reflecting the state’s rich cultural tapestry.

Religious Landscape of Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh is home to numerous ethnic communities, each with its unique beliefs. The Monpas and Sherdukpens practice Mahayana Buddhism, while the Khamptis and Singphos follow Theravada Buddhism. Other tribes engage in polytheistic nature worship. The Tani group, particularly the Nyishis and Adis, has institutionalised the worship of Donyi Polo, indigenous faith.

Historical Context of Christianity

Christianity began to gain a foothold in Arunachal Pradesh in the 1950s. This growth was influenced by missionary activities in Assam and the establishment of the first church in 1957. Census data shows a rise in the Christian population, with figures increasing from 0.79% in 1971 to 30.26% in 2011. This rapid growth has sparked debates about the implications for indigenous religions.

Opposition to the Act

The Act faced opposition from its inception. Bakin Pertin, a Christian MP, notably contested it, and the Nagaland Legislative Assembly passed a resolution against it. The Arunachal Christian Forum, established shortly after the Act’s enactment, has continued to advocate for its repeal, labelling it an “anti-Christian law.” Concerns about potential misuse by authorities have also been raised.

Current Developments

In 2022, a public interest litigation was filed to prompt the state government to implement the Act. The Gauhati High Court has since received assurances that draft rules are being prepared. Advocates believe that enforcing the Act is crucial to preserving indigenous cultures amidst rising conversions.

The 1978 Act prohibits conversion by force or fraud.
Donyi Polo is a prominent indigenous faith in Arunachal Pradesh.
The first church in Arunachal was established in 1957.
Christianity grew from 0.79% in 1971 to 30.26% in 2011.
The Act requires all conversions to be reported to the Deputy Commissioner.

Future Implications of the Act

The revival of the 1978 Act may lead to changes in the religious landscape of Arunachal Pradesh. The government’s commitment to implement the Act could alter the dynamics between indigenous faiths and Christianity. As discussions continue, the implications for cultural preservation and religious freedom remain very important in the ongoing dialogue within the state.

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