YUPIA, Oct 1: In a recent court proceeding, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was brought before the division bench of Justice Kardak Ete and Justice Budi Habung highlighting the delay in framing rules under the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978. The petitioner argued that despite 45 years having passed since the enactment of the law, the state government has failed to formulate the necessary rules as mandated by Section 8 of the Act.
The case was presented by Mr. S. Yirang, learned counsel for the petitioner, while the State respondent was represented by Mr. I. Choudhury, the learned Advocate General. In an additional affidavit, the State informed the court that draft rules had been submitted to the government for further scrutiny and are awaiting vetting from the Law Department.
During the hearing, Mr. I. Choudhury stated that finalizing the rules would take at least another six months. After considering the submissions, the court concluded that there was no further need to keep the PIL pending. The petition was subsequently closed, but the court reminded the authorities of their obligation to finalize the draft rules within the stipulated six-month period.
The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, was enacted to regulate religious conversions and protect religious freedom in the state. However, the lack of finalized rules has raised concerns about its implementation. With the court’s directive, it is now anticipated that the necessary framework will be in place within the next six months.
