Arunachal Christian Forum Opposes Demand To Delist ST Status Based On Religion.

Itanagar; May 2026: The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) has strongly condemned the recent demand raised by the Jan Jati Suraksha Manch in Delhi seeking the removal of Scheduled Tribe (ST) status from certain tribal communities based on their religious affiliation.

In a statement issued yesterday (Wednesday – 27th May 2026) ACF termed the demand raised by the Jan Jati Suraksha Manch as unconstitutional and said it undermines the historical, cultural, social, and ethnic identity of indigenous tribal communities across the country, particularly in the Northeast.

The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) recently convened a press conference to voice critical concerns regarding the implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978 (APFRA). Representatives emphasised the need for a balanced approach that safeguards the constitutional rights of the Christian community while ensuring the law is not used as a tool for harassment. The forum called for greater transparency and an open dialogue with the state government to address grievances and promote peaceful coexistence among the state’s diverse religious groups.

ACF president James Techi Tara stated that Scheduled Tribe recognition is rooted in indigenous identity, customary traditions, geographical isolation, and socio-economic conditions rather than religion. “ST recognition is based on the unique identity and traditional characteristics of indigenous tribal communities, not on the basis of religious affiliation”, Tara said.

He stressed that tribal communities in Arunachal Pradesh and other parts of Northeast India continue to retain their languages, customs, traditional governance systems, and ethnic identity regardless of the faith they practice.

According to the forum, any attempt to divide tribal communities along religious lines could seriously threaten social harmony, constitutional values, and the unity of indigenous people. “Any move to discriminate against tribal communities because of religion will weaken the constitutional safeguards meant to protect vulnerable indigenous groups and preserve their distinct heritage”, Tara added.

The ACF further stated that constitutional protections granted to Scheduled Tribes were introduced to safeguard communities that have historically faced social and economic disadvantages, while also protecting their traditional way of life and cultural identity.

The forum urged the Government of India, policymakers, and concerned authorities to reject any proposal that seeks to alter ST status on religious grounds and instead uphold the constitutional rights guaranteed to all Scheduled Tribe communities.

Meanwhile, Arunachal ST Bachao Andolan Committee spokesperson Tana Tamar strongly raised concerns related to the Inner Line Permit (ILP), offspring issue, and illegal immigration during a high-level consultative meeting organised by the Arunachal Pradesh Government at the State Banquet Hall.

Addressing the meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pema Khandu in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Home Minister Mama Natung, and representatives from community-based organisations, student unions, and civil society groups, Tamar stressed the urgent need for stricter implementation of the ILP system.

He also emphasised adopting technology-driven monitoring mechanisms to strengthen the ILP framework and protect the indigenous identity and demographic security of Arunachal Pradesh.

Team Maverick.