Arunachal Pradesh’s 1978 Act on Forced Conversion

The Arunachal Pradesh government is reviving a 1978 Act aimed at preventing forced religious conversion. Nearly five decades after it was enacted, the state is now working on rules for its implementation. This Act prohibits conversion through force, inducement, or fraud, and imposes penalties for violations. It reflects the state’s complex religious landscape, where diverse beliefs coexist.

Background of the Act

The 1978 Act was introduced by Arunachal Pradesh’s first Legislative Assembly. At that time, the region was undergoing social changes. The Act prohibits religious conversions by force or deceit. It mandates that all conversions be reported to the local Deputy Commissioner. Failure to report can lead to legal consequences for the converter.

Religious Diversity in Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh is home to various ethnic communities with distinct religious practices. Mahayana Buddhism is prevalent among the Monpas and Sherdukpens. Theravada Buddhism is practiced by the Khamptis and Singphos. Many tribes also engage in nature worship, particularly the Donyi Polo faith among the Tani tribes. Unlike other northeastern states, Christianity only gained a foothold in the 1950s due to geographical and historical factors.

Historical Context of Christianity

Christianity’s growth in Arunachal Pradesh has been notable. From 0.79% in 1971, the Christian population rose to 30.26% by 2011. This increase has sparked debates about the impact of conversion on indigenous religions. The Arunachal Christian Forum has opposed the 1978 Act, viewing it as a threat to religious freedom.

Controversies Surrounding the Act

The Act faced opposition even before its enactment. Prominent figures, including Bakin Pertin, contested it due to concerns over its potential misuse. The Act’s implementation has been stalled for years, mainly due to the growing Christian population and political pressures. Recent statements from political leaders have indicated a shift towards either repealing or enforcing the Act.

Recent Developments

In 2022, a public interest litigation was filed to expedite the framing of rules for the Act. The Gauhati High Court has urged the state to finalise these rules within six months. Advocates for the Act argue that it is necessary to protect indigenous cultures against the rapid pace of conversion.

Current Religious Demographics

According to the 2011 census, Hinduism is the second largest religion in Arunachal Pradesh, followed by ‘Other Religions’ and Buddhism. The rise of Christianity has prompted discussions on the preservation of indigenous beliefs. The activities of organisations like the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh are also influential in shaping religious practices in the state.

Implications for Indigenous Faiths

Supporters of the Act view it as a safeguard for indigenous cultures. They express concern over the diminishing recognition of traditional practices. The Act aims to document and institutionalise these beliefs, ensuring their survival in an increasingly diverse religious landscape.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the socio-cultural implications of the rise of Christianity in Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Discuss the role of indigenous faiths in preserving cultural identity in the context of modern religious dynamics.
3. Critically discuss the impact of the 1978 Act on religious freedom in Arunachal Pradesh.
4. With suitable examples, analyse the relationship between religious conversion and socio-political changes in Arunachal Pradesh.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the socio-cultural implications of the rise of Christianity in Arunachal Pradesh.

1. Christianity’s growth from 0.79% in 1971 to 30.26% in 2011 indicates socio-cultural shifts.
2. The conversion has led to debates about the impact on indigenous religions and traditional practices.
3. Christianity’s spread has been facilitated by missionary efforts, particularly in foothill areas.
4. Opposition from indigenous communities reflects concerns over cultural erosion and identity loss.
5. Increased Christian demographics have influenced local politics and social dynamics, causing tensions.

2. Discuss the role of indigenous faiths in preserving cultural identity in the context of modern religious dynamics.

1. Indigenous faiths like Donyi Polo are central to the cultural identity of various ethnic groups in Arunachal Pradesh.
2. These faiths encompass unique beliefs, practices, and customs that distinguish communities from others.
3. Efforts to document and institutionalize indigenous beliefs are crucial for cultural preservation amid modern influences.
4. Indigenous faiths provide a sense of community and belonging, countering the effects of conversion.
5. The revival of the 1978 Act is seen as a means to protect and promote these indigenous practices.

3. Critically discuss the impact of the 1978 Act on religious freedom in Arunachal Pradesh.

1. The Act prohibits forced conversions, aiming to protect indigenous faiths but raises concerns about religious freedom.
2. Critics argue that it may infringe upon the rights of individuals to choose their faith freely.
3. The Act’s enforcement could lead to misuse by authorities, potentially targeting specific communities.
4. Supporters view it as necessary for safeguarding cultural heritage against rapid conversions.
5. The ongoing debate reflects tensions between protecting indigenous rights and upholding individual freedoms.

4. With suitable examples, analyse the relationship between religious conversion and socio-political changes in Arunachal Pradesh.

1. The rise of Christianity has shifted demographic balances, influencing local political landscapes and power dynamics.
2. Debates in the state Assembly highlight concerns over the socio-cultural implications of conversion on indigenous communities.
3. For instance, the establishment of the Arunachal Christian Forum indicates organized resistance against perceived threats to Christianity.
4. Political leaders’ statements reflect the tension between enforcing the 1978 Act and addressing community concerns.
5. Socio-political changes are also evident in the rise of organizations like the RSS, which aim to promote indigenous faiths.