Daily Current Affairs : 6-January-2025

The Arunachal Pradesh government is taking steps to enforce the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, after nearly 46 years of its introduction. This move seeks to address growing concerns related to forceful conversions in the state, especially among indigenous communities.

What is the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978?

The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act was introduced with the aim of protecting the religious rights of indigenous communities and preventing forced conversions. The Act was enacted during a time when the state was undergoing rapid social and cultural changes, making it vulnerable to external religious influences.

Key Provisions of the Act
  1. Protection of Indigenous Faiths:
    The Act recognizes indigenous faiths as the traditional religions, customs, and beliefs of the native communities. This includes:
    • Buddhism: Practiced by communities like the Monpas, Membas, and Khambas.
    • Donyi-Polo: The worship of the Sun and Moon by various tribal groups.
    • Vaishnavism: Followed by the Noctes and Akas.
  2. Prohibition of Forced Conversions:
    The Act strictly prohibits any forced religious conversions, either through coercion or manipulation.
  3. Punishments for Violations:
    Anyone found guilty of forcing a conversion can face:
    • Up to 2 years of imprisonment.
    • A fine of up to Rs. 10,000.
  4. Mandatory Reporting:
    Any religious conversion must be reported to the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of the respective district.
The Revival of the Act

The revival of the Act gained momentum following a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in 2022, which led to intervention by the Gauhati High Court. This prompted the Arunachal Pradesh government to take steps towards implementing the rules necessary for the Act’s enforcement.

Support from Indigenous Groups

The Act is strongly supported by various local organizations, including the Indigenous Faiths and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP). These groups are particularly concerned about the rising rates of religious conversions in certain districts, with some areas reporting conversion rates as high as 90%.

Rising Christian Population

A significant shift has been observed in the religious composition of Arunachal Pradesh. The Christian population has grown from just 0.79% in 1971 to 30.26% in 2011, a change that has sparked concerns about the impact on indigenous beliefs and practices.

Important Points:
  • Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978 aims to prevent forced religious conversions in the state.
  • The Act recognizes and protects indigenous faiths such as Buddhism, Donyi-Polo (Sun and Moon worship), and Vaishnavism.
  • Prohibition of forced conversions: The Act prohibits any coercive religious conversion.
  • Punishment for violations: Violators face up to 2 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs. 10,000.
  • Mandatory reporting: Religious conversions must be reported to the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of the district.
  • The Act gained momentum for revival after a 2022 Public Interest Litigation (PIL) and intervention by the Gauhati High Court.
  • Support from the Indigenous Faiths and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) to protect indigenous beliefs.
  • Christian population in Arunachal Pradesh increased from 0.79% (1971) to 30.26% (2011), raising concerns about religious conversions.
  • Some districts have seen conversion rates as high as 90%.
Why In News

The Arunachal Pradesh government is finally taking steps to implement the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, by framing rules for its enforcement, nearly 46 years after its enactment, signaling a renewed commitment to safeguarding the cultural and religious integrity of the state’s indigenous communities.

MCQs about Arunachal Pradesh Moves to Enforce Freedom of Religion Act
  1. What is the main objective of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978?
    A. To encourage religious conversions
    B. To prohibit forced religious conversions
    C. To promote religious tourism
    D. To support missionary activities
    Correct Answer: B. To prohibit forced religious conversions
    Explanation: The main aim of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, is to prevent forced religious conversions, ensuring that people can practice their religion freely without coercion.
  2. Which of the following is explicitly recognized as an indigenous faith in the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978?
    A. Christianity
    B. Donyi-Polo
    C. Islam
    D. Sikhism
    Correct Answer: B. Donyi-Polo
    Explanation: The Act recognizes indigenous faiths practiced by native communities, including Donyi-Polo, which is a traditional religion that worships the Sun and Moon, particularly followed by the Tani and Sino-Tibetan peoples in Arunachal Pradesh.
  3. What punishment does the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978 prescribe for individuals involved in forced conversions?
    A. A fine of Rs. 1,000
    B. Up to 2 years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs. 10,000
    C. Imprisonment for life
    D. A fine of Rs. 50,000
    Correct Answer: B. Up to 2 years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs. 10,000
    Explanation: The Act mandates that those found guilty of forced religious conversions face up to 2 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs. 10,000.
  4. What triggered the recent push to implement the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act?
    A. A Supreme Court order
    B. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in 2022
    C. A decision by the central government
    D. International pressure
    Correct Answer: B. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in 2022
    Explanation: The revival of the Act gained momentum after a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in 2022 led to intervention by the Gauhati High Court, prompting the state government to frame necessary rules for its enforcement.

Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions

Loading