Itanagar: Amidst ongoing discussions and some opposition surrounding ‘The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA)’, the state’s Home Minister, Mama Natung, has firmly stated that the legislation is not targeted at any specific religious group. Instead, he emphasized that the primary objective of the Act is to provide protection to all religious practices prevalent within the state of Arunachal Pradesh.
Minister Natung’s statements were made during a significant state-level workshop organized by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Arunachal Pradesh Unit. The workshop, centered around the Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Samman Abhiyan – 2025, was held at the party’s headquarters in Guwahati today, April 13th. This event precedes the 134th birth anniversary of Dr. Ambedkar, which falls on April 14th.
Addressing the concerns that have been raised regarding APFRA, Natung clarified the state government’s stance. He asserted that while the Act would not be repealed, the government is committed to amending it with appropriate rules and regulations. These amendments, he explained, are being formulated in accordance with the directives issued by the High Court and are aimed at serving the broader interests of the people of Arunachal Pradesh. The Home Minister also pointed out that a lack of accurate information has led to the spread of misinformation concerning the Act, underscoring the critical need for effective dissemination of correct information at all levels, particularly at the grassroots.
In his capacity as the chief guest at the workshop, Natung paid rich tributes to the enduring legacy of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar. He acknowledged Dr. Ambedkar’s monumental contributions, particularly his pivotal role in drafting the Indian Constitution and his profound vision for safeguarding the nation. Furthermore, Natung criticized the Indian National Congress party for allegedly misleading the public with claims that the BJP is against the Constitution. He firmly reiterated the BJP’s unwavering commitment to upholding the principles and values enshrined in the Constitution.
Natung urged the BJP workers present at the workshop to actively engage with the public at the grassroots level. He emphasized the importance of educating citizens about the historical treatment of Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy by the Congress party. Additionally, he called upon the party workers to raise awareness about the various developmental initiatives that have been undertaken by both the state government and the central government.
Kaling Moyong, the State President of the BJP, also offered a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Ambedkar, recognizing him as the principal architect of the Indian Constitution and a dedicated champion of social justice. He voiced his concern over what he described as the marginalization of Dr. Ambedkar by the Congress party, both during his lifetime and in the period following his passing. Moyong announced that an extensive program under the Samman Abhiyan 2025 would be conducted across Arunachal Pradesh from April 14th to April 25th. This program will encompass a series of events at the district, mandal, and booth levels throughout the state. He called upon all party workers to actively propagate the key messages emanating from the workshop to ensure widespread public engagement and understanding.
Tadar Niglar, the State General Secretary and the Convener of Samman Abhiyan 2025, delivered a presentation centered on the theme “From Neglect to Reverence: Betrayal by Congress, Honour by BJP.” In his address, Niglar detailed how the legacy of Dr. Ambedkar was allegedly historically overlooked and neglected by the Congress party. In contrast, he highlighted how the BJP has consistently honored and actively promoted Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions and ideals.
Adding to the discourse, Arun Halder, a national resource person, presented a talk titled ‘BJP vs Congress: A Tale of Constitutional Integrity Vs Constitutional Sabotage’. His presentation focused on what he described as the repeated instances of the Congress party undermining the Constitution. He contrasted this with the BJP’s consistent efforts to uphold constitutional values, with a particular emphasis on the advancement of social justice.
The workshop concluded with a strong call to action for all party workers. They were urged to carry forward the vision of Dr. Ambedkar and to ensure that his profound ideals are not only promoted but also deeply respected throughout the state of Arunachal Pradesh.
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