Why Are Nagaland Christians Renewing Their Call to End a Long-Standing Security Law?

Christian leaders in Nagaland have renewed their call for the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, or AFSPA, along with concerns about other laws and regulations affecting the northeastern state. The issue was highlighted during a large Rally for Religious Freedom organised by the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum in Kohima on September 12, 2026. The ecumenical forum, representing Christian denominations across the state, submitted a nine-point memorandum to the President of India through the Governor of Nagaland. Among the concerns raised were the continuation of AFSPA, the Protected Area Permit system, proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act and issues surrounding religious and constitutional freedoms. Christian leaders said they recognise the importance of national security and accountability. However, they argued that security regulations should not unnecessarily restrict the rights and freedoms of citizens. Bishop James Thoppil of Kohima said Christians were not opposed to regulation of foreign contributions or measures intended to protect national security. He stressed that regulation should remain proportionate and should not negatively affect legitimate religious and charitable activities. The forum also expressed reservations about proposals concerning the singing of Vande Mataram, saying that matters involving religious conscience should take account of India's diverse faith traditions. AFSPA has been a longstanding subject of debate in parts of Northeast India because it grants special powers to security forces in areas officially designated as “disturbed.” Critics have argued that such powers should be reconsidered where security conditions have changed, while supporters have cited security concerns in areas affected by insurgency and unrest. Fr. Jacob Charalel, chancellor of the Diocese of Kohima, argued that the situation in Nagaland has changed and called for the government to reconsider the continuation of AFSPA. Other Christian representatives similarly urged greater consultation before introducing measures that could affect religious communities and charitable institutions. The Nagaland Joint Christian Forum said its appeal was not directed against a particular political party or government. Instead, its representatives presented the rally as a call for constitutional rights, religious freedom and peaceful coexistence. The developments reflect wider discussions in Nagaland about security legislation, religious freedom, cultural identity and the constitutional rights of citizens. Christian leaders say they want these issues to be addressed through dialogue and peaceful democratic processes.