ITANAGAR: The capital city of Arunachal Pradesh witnessed an unprecedented display of public demand as approximately 10,000 citizens took to the streets in a massive rally, vociferously calling for the immediate implementation of the long-pending Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA) of 1978.
Historic Demand Gains Momentum
The peaceful yet powerful demonstration, organized by the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Forum, saw participants from diverse backgrounds marching from Indira Gandhi Park to the Tennis Court in Itanagar. The sheer scale of the protest underscores the growing public urgency surrounding this 45-year-old legislation that has remained largely unimplemented.
What Makes APFRA 1978 So Crucial?
The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, was designed as a protective measure to safeguard the state's indigenous faiths and cultural practices from forced conversions. Despite being on the statute books for decades, the act has never been effectively enforced, leaving many indigenous communities feeling vulnerable to external religious influences.
Protestors carried banners and placards with messages like "Save Our Indigenous Faiths" and "Implement APFRA Now," creating a sea of demand that flowed through the city's main thoroughfares. The atmosphere was charged with determination as voices united in chanting slogans that echoed through the valley.
Voices from the Ground
Organizers emphasized that this massive mobilization represents more than just a protest—it's a movement to preserve the cultural identity of Arunachal Pradesh. "We are not against any religion," explained one forum representative. "We are for the protection of our indigenous beliefs and practices that form the very fabric of our society."
Local elders, youth leaders, women's groups, and students participated in equal measure, demonstrating the cross-generational support for this cause. Many participants traveled from remote districts to join what they described as a "historic gathering for our cultural survival."
The Road Ahead
The successful organization of such a large-scale rally without any untoward incidents highlights the disciplined approach of both organizers and participants. As the demonstration concluded, forum leaders submitted a formal memorandum to state authorities, urging immediate action on implementing the act.
This massive public display of concern is expected to put significant pressure on the state government to address what protestors call "decades of delay" in protecting their cultural and religious heritage. The eyes of the entire North East region are now on Itanagar, waiting to see how the government responds to this unprecedented public demand.
