| Staff REPORTER |
ITANAGAR, Apr 21: The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) has stated that it will not be part of the High Powered Committee (HPC) constituted for framing rules under the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978, while continuing its democratic movement against the Act’s implementation.
Addressing reporters at the Arunachal Press Club here on Tuesday, ACF president James Techi Tara said the Forum opposes the Act itself and therefore sees no reason to participate in the rule-framing process. “We are opposed to the Act itself; why would we be part of the committee that frames its rules?” he said.
Reiterating its demand for repeal of APFRA, the ACF termed the Freedom of Religion Act, 1978 “defective” and alleged that it could be used as a tool for harassment of the Christian community.
Informing that its members walked out of the HPC meeting held earlier in the day as a mark of protest, the ACF claimed that a majority of the committee members support the APFRA, 1978.
Announcing further course of action, the ACF said it will stage a dharna on April 30 in protest against the move to frame the APFRA rules.