Christians in Nagaland Seek Protection for Religious Freedom and Constitutional Rights

Around 5,000 Christians in Nagaland participated in a rally in the state capital, Kohima, calling on the Indian government to protect religious freedom, freedom of conscience and constitutional rights. The rally was organized on September 12, 2026, by the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum, an ecumenical organization representing different Christian denominations in the Christian-majority northeastern state. At the end of the rally, the forum submitted a nine-point memorandum addressed to President Droupadi Murmu. The memorandum was handed over through Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav, who represents the federal government in the state. Among the concerns raised were proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), the promotion of the national song Vande Mataram at public events, the continuation of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) system and the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA). According to the report, Christian organizations have expressed concern about proposed changes to the FCRA. The proposed amendments would increase government control over organizations receiving foreign contributions and could allow authorities to seize properties if an organization's mandatory registration is revoked. Christian leaders have called for wider consultation before changes are introduced. The forum also raised concerns about calls for Vande Mataram to be fully sung at national and state-level public events. Critics and some religious minorities have objected to certain portions of the song because of their religious references, according to the report. Another issue discussed was the Protected Area Permit system, which regulates visits by foreign nationals to certain parts of northeastern India. The forum questioned whether the system should continue. The group also called for reconsideration of AFSPA, a law that provides extensive powers and certain legal protections to security forces in areas designated as disturbed. Church representatives in Nagaland argued that the law should be reviewed given the current situation in the state. Church Leaders' Concerns Pastor N. Paphino, president of the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum, said the people of Nagaland were speaking about their concerns both as Indians and as Christians. He argued that national unity should not require religious or cultural uniformity. Forum joint secretary Father George Rino said Christians were concerned about legislation and regulations that they believe could affect their religious freedom. He particularly called for consultation with stakeholders regarding changes to the FCRA so that Christian charitable organizations can continue their services. Bishop James Thoppil of Kohima said Christians do not oppose legislation or regulation intended to protect national security, accountability and public welfare. However, he stressed that regulation should not become a restriction on religious communities. Father Jacob Charalel, chancellor of the Diocese of Kohima, criticized AFSPA as overly broad and questioned the continued need for the law in Nagaland. He also described the Protected Area Permit system as unnecessary. Student leader Kegwayhun Tep similarly called on the government to reconsider measures that local groups consider unnecessarily restrictive. The rally reflects continuing concerns among Christian leaders in Nagaland about religious freedom, constitutional protections and government regulations affecting Christian organizations and communities.