The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has reaffirmed its position on issues related to the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978 (APFRA), stating that its approach is guided by constitutional principles and is not influenced by religion-based politics.In a statement issued on Sunday, the party said its stand on the matter had already been clearly outlined by APCC President Bosiram Siram during an earlier press interaction held in the presence of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charges for Arunachal Pradesh.The APCC said its primary objective is to uphold constitutional governance, equal rights, religious freedom and peaceful coexistence among all communities in line with the values of secularism, democracy and socialism enshrined in the Constitution of India.According to the party, any decision taken by the government on issues related to APFRA must remain firmly rooted in constitutional principles and should not deviate from the fundamental values that form the foundation of the Republic.
The Congress stated that policy decisions and administrative measures should take into consideration the views, concerns and aspirations of all sections of society. It stressed that the interests of every stakeholder must be carefully considered while addressing sensitive issues concerning religion, culture and identity.The APCC also underlined the importance of protecting and preserving the age-old indigenous tribal rights, customs, traditions and cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh. The party said these traditional institutions and practices are an integral part of the state’s social fabric and must continue to receive protection.At the same time, the Congress emphasised the need to safeguard the human rights, religious freedom and constitutional protections available to indigenous tribal religious minorities. It said the Constitution guarantees equal rights and dignity to every citizen regardless of faith or background.The party maintained that lasting peace, social harmony and unity can only be achieved through dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to constitutional safeguards. It added that equal protection of the rights and dignity of all citizens is essential for maintaining a stable and inclusive society.
“The party remains committed to constitutional governance, equal rights, religious freedom and harmonious coexistence among all communities. Any course of action must remain anchored to constitutional values while protecting the rights, traditions and aspirations of all sections of society,” the statement said.The APCC further stated that a balanced and inclusive approach is necessary to address concerns surrounding APFRA while ensuring social cohesion, protecting indigenous traditions and upholding the constitutional framework of the country. The issue of APFRA has remained a subject of public and political discussion in Arunachal Pradesh, with different groups expressing varying views on its implementation and implications. Against this backdrop, the Congress said it would continue to advocate an approach based on constitutional principles, dialogue and inclusivity.
