The United Christian Forum (UCF) has extended its support to the Arunachal Christian Forum’s (ACF) planned mass vehicle rally in Itanagar on June 18 to protest the draft rules of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978. The UCF has urged Christians across the country to participate in the demonstration, arguing that the proposed rules could affect religious freedom and personal autonomy.
Furthermore, the organization expressed concerns that the draft provisions may go beyond preventing forced conversions and could impact voluntary expressions of faith. The rally aims to mobilize public support and highlight opposition to the proposed rules.
Read More: Nagaland CM Demands Justice for Six Naga Victims in Manipur
Key Facts
- Event: Mass vehicle rally against APFRA draft rules.
- Date: June 18, 2026.
- Location: Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh.
- Organizer: Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF).
- Supporter: United Christian Forum (UCF).
- Issue: Opposition to draft rules under the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978.
- Objective: Protect religious freedom and raise public awareness.
UCF Extends Support to Protest Rally
The United Christian Forum has backed the Arunachal Christian Forum’s planned vehicle rally in Itanagar against the proposed APFRA draft rules.
In a statement issued from New Delhi, the UCF called on Christians across India to join the protest and support the campaign against the implementation of the draft regulations.
Concerns Over Religious Freedom
According to the UCF, the proposed rules could undermine religious freedom and individual choice in matters of faith.
The organization acknowledged that the Constitution permits reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order. However, it argued that such restrictions should remain necessary, proportionate, and clearly defined.
Furthermore, the forum expressed concern that the draft rules may extend beyond addressing coercive religious conversions and could affect voluntary religious practices.
UCF Cites Constitutional Rights
The UCF emphasized that Article 25 of the Indian Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to profess, practice, and propagate religion.
Moreover, the organization warned that excessive regulation of religious activities could create mistrust and restrict freedom of conscience. It maintained that matters of faith are deeply personal and should not face unnecessary state intervention.
Call for Repeal of APFRA
UCF National President Dr. Michael Williams said the demand to repeal the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act seeks to protect constitutional freedoms.
According to Williams, repealing the law is not about removing safeguards. Instead, he argued that it would help ensure that legislation does not interfere with personal religious choices and remains consistent with constitutional values.
Additionally, he stated that trust and mutual respect should form the foundation of a democratic society rather than suspicion and excessive oversight.
ACF Plans Public Mobilisation
Leaders of the Arunachal Christian Forum said the June 18 vehicle rally will serve as a platform to demonstrate public opposition to the draft rules.
They also hope the event will mobilize broader support across Arunachal Pradesh and encourage discussions on religious freedom and constitutional rights.
Question & Answer
Q: What is the June 18 rally about?
A: The rally is a protest against the draft rules of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978.
Q: Who is organizing the rally?
A: The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) is organizing the mass vehicle rally in Itanagar.
Q: Why is the UCF supporting the protest?
A: The UCF believes the proposed rules may affect religious freedom, personal autonomy, and voluntary expressions of faith.
Q: Which constitutional provision did the UCF cite?
A: The organization referred to Article 25, which guarantees the right to profess, practice, and propagate religion.
Q: When and where will the rally take place?
A: The rally is scheduled for June 18 in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh.
Location Context
Arunachal Pradesh is a strategically important state in Northeast India, sharing international borders with China, Myanmar, and Bhutan. As a culturally diverse region, discussions on religious freedom, constitutional rights, and social harmony often carry significant importance for communities across the Northeast.
Also Read: Sushmita Dev Rajya Sabha Resignation Sparks Political Discussions – Borok Times