AICU Voices Concern Over Christian Situation in Northeast, Flags Revival of Arunachal Religion Law

Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, 22 February 2026 — The All India Catholic Union (AICU) has expressed serious concern over the condition of Christians across India’s northeastern region, warning of rising pressures linked to legislation, social exclusion and incidents affecting religious freedom.

The concerns were raised during the organisation’s working committee meeting in Arunachal Pradesh, where members reviewed developments across the eight northeastern states and urged authorities to uphold constitutional protections for religious minorities.

AICU National President Elias Vaz called on state administrations to ensure security, deliver justice and promote communal harmony. He emphasised that governments must safeguard freedom of religion and prevent the demonisation of minority communities.

Particular concern was expressed over moves to enforce the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, legislation enacted to prohibit conversions by force, inducement or fraud. The AICU said certain provisions could be used to criminalise core Christian practices, and warned that renewed enforcement may deepen social tensions in tribal areas. The organisation previously appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking repeal of the law and engagement with the National Human Rights Commission.

The Union also highlighted the continuing humanitarian impact of ethnic violence in Manipur, which erupted in May 2023. The conflict has led to significant loss of life, mass displacement and destruction of homes and places of worship, with the Kuki-Zo community among those most affected. The AICU urged intensified monitoring, mediation and rehabilitation measures.

In Mizoram, the organisation endorsed ongoing humanitarian assistance to thousands of Myanmar Chin refugees despite financial strain on local resources. It also flagged concerns in Meghalaya regarding proposals affecting tribal status, and condemned incidents of church vandalism reported in the region.

Leaders in Nagaland have voiced alarm over attacks on Christians nationally, while in Assam and Tripura, the AICU cited reports of harassment and restrictions affecting prayer gatherings. In Sikkim, the organisation supported calls for Scheduled Caste recognition for communities excluded from such status for decades.

At the national level, the AICU urged the Union government to strengthen constitutional safeguards, restore minority scholarship programmes, fill vacancies in the National Minorities Commission and ensure the protection of Dalit and Adivasi rights.

The Catholic body described the developments as a test of India’s commitment to pluralism and called for dialogue and policy measures that uphold dignity, equality and social harmony.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

Download Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates: 

Android: Click here to download

iOS: Click here to download