Why in news
A conflict exists in Arunachal Pradesh regarding the 1978 anti-conversion law.
Christians recently held a hunger strike opposing its enforcement.
Indigenous faith believers held a rally demanding its implementation.
Indigenous Faith Believers' Stance:
The Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) organized the rally.
They claim the 1978 Act was intended for the welfare of indigenous tribal society.
They assert that successive governments have failed to implement the law.
They believe the Act is necessary to preserve their culture, tradition, and rituals.
They express concern over tribal people converting to other religions and fear the extinction of their indigenous faiths.
The rally occurred after IFCSAP leaders met with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat.
Christian Stance:
The Arunachal Christian Forum opposes the anti-conversion law.
They believe the law is specifically targeted against Christianity.
They stated that anti conversion laws are enforced in 11 states of india.
Anti-conversion Act of 1978
The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act of 1978 is an anti-conversion law that prohibits forceful religious conversions in the state.
The law was introduced to protect the traditional beliefs of indigenous communities.
Key features
The law prohibits conversion by force, inducement, or fraud
It requires all conversions to be reported to the district authorities
It prescribes penalties of imprisonment and fines for violations
The law defines "religious faiths" to include indigenous faiths
It recognizes indigenous faiths as religions, beliefs, customs, and observances
History
The law was enacted in 1978 by Arunachal's first Legislative Assembly
The law remained dormant for almost five decades due to a lack of implementation rules
The law was revived after a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in 2022
The state government finalized the necessary rules for its implementation
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