Christian Forum asks Arunachal to solve Tawang church issue 

Arunachal, 2nd November: The Arunachal Christian Forum has served a notice to the state government to resolve the Tawang Christian Revival Church issue at the earliest. And if they fail to do so, they threatened to start a democratic stir. The Tawang Police also arrested church pastor Joseph Singhi which sparked protests from the Christian community in Arunachal. He was arrested based on an FIR lodged by the district land revenue and survey officer, for illegally constructing the church.

The ACF had initially submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister’s office on October 9. The ACF claimed that the church was established in 1999 and a request for allotment of land was submitted in the Chief Minister’s office in 2003. Claiming that the application for land allotment was sent repeatedly to the land management secretary, the forum said that the file was never returned.

While stating that the Baptist church in Tawang was established in June 2004 at an identified spot after a thorough discussion with the defence personnel, the ACF said that “The churches were constructed and functioning for decades without any complaints from any person and association and the government authority while land allotment files were pending.” It also said that since the condition of the other church was worsening over the years, it was felt that an RCC church was required in the same area.

India is a secular country and the right to freedom of religion is enshrined in the constitution to enable its citizens to freely profess and practice their religious beliefs. Quoting the Supreme Court’s 2009 ban on unauthorised construction of religious structures on public streets, roads and public utility spaces is simply unjustified here“, said the ACF.

The forum also appealed for a representation of the ACF president Toko Teki and stated that they respect the beliefs and cultures of the people of Tawang and they do not wish to interrupt in their way of life.

The Tawang DA invoked Section 4(1) of the Arunachal Pradesh Public Premises Act, 2003. There is reportedly a blanket ban on a land allotment in Tawang for 10 years.