In the lush landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, a state nestled in India’s northeastern corner, stories of faith and resilience echo through the hills. Among these tales, the journey of Marbom Tasar stands out, illuminating the struggles and triumphs of Christians in a region where their beliefs often come under fire.
Marbom Tasar, along with his friend Tai Tatu, embraced Christianity in 1968 while visiting relatives in Roing. This pivotal moment ignited a fervent desire to share the gospel with their fellow Gelo tribesmen back in their village of Lete, where animism reigned. The duo embarked on a 160-mile journey, eager to spread their newfound faith. However, their return was met with adversity. Shortly after their arrival, a local crisis unfolded when homemade wine led to a dysentery outbreak. Tasar, driven by compassion, prayed for the afflicted, witnessing miraculous healings. This sparked a wave of conversions, prompting the construction of a church to serve three nearby villages.
Yet, the flames of faith were met with the flames of destruction. Local tribal leaders, alarmed by the growing Christian presence, orchestrated the church’s burning. Tasar, Tatu, and another believer found themselves in police custody, facing the harsh reality of religious persecution. “For us, persecution started right from the time we carried the gospel to our village,” Tasar recalled, a sentiment that rings painfully true in many parts of the world today.
The 1970s were particularly brutal for Tasar and his community, marked by arrests and harassment. In a desperate bid for safety, he fled into the dense forests, sleeping in trees to escape authorities. The situation worsened when the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act was enacted in 1978, effectively banning religious conversions. Despite this, the law faced significant opposition from local Christian leaders and legislators, preventing its full implementation.
Over the years, the Christian community in Arunachal Pradesh has flourished, with Tasar playing an instrumental role in establishing over 80 churches across the state. However, the recent political climate raises concerns for the future of Christianity in the region. With the rise of Hindutva ideologies, a new wave of repression threatens to engulf the Christian population once more.
As Tasar reflects on the past, he recalls harrowing incidents of persecution, such as the public humiliation of a Christian woman who steadfastly refused to renounce her faith. “It was never the backing of the church council nor the funds from wealthy businessmen that encouraged us to share the gospel,” he stated. “It was only God and His Word that was with us.” His words resonate deeply, underscoring the power of faith in the face of adversity.
Today, Christians make up approximately 30% of Arunachal Pradesh’s population, according to the 2011 Indian census, though many believe the actual number is higher. This growth can be traced back to the early 19th century when Scottish and American missionaries first arrived in the region, introducing Christianity alongside education and medical aid. Despite initial resistance, the seeds of faith took root, leading to a significant Christian presence by the mid-20th century.
However, this growth has not come without challenges. The state government’s recent push to enforce the anti-conversion law, following a court directive, has reignited fears among Christians. The law, originally designed to protect indigenous beliefs, is perceived as a direct attack on religious freedom. Christian leaders are mobilizing to challenge the law’s implementation, organizing protests and prayer vigils in hopes of safeguarding their rights.
The situation in Arunachal Pradesh serves as a microcosm of the broader struggle for religious liberty in India. While the Constitution guarantees the right to freely practice and propagate faith, many states have enacted laws that disproportionately target Christians. The Arunachal Christian Forum is at the forefront of efforts to combat these restrictions, advocating for the repeal of the anti-conversion law and rallying support from both local and international communities.
As the community braces for potential backlash, Tasar remains hopeful. “We have faced persecution before, and we stood firm,” he asserts, embodying the indomitable spirit of faith that has characterized the Christian community in Arunachal Pradesh. “This time will be no different.”
In this vibrant yet challenging landscape, the story of Marbom Tasar and the Christians of Arunachal Pradesh is a powerful reminder of the resilience of faith and the enduring quest for religious freedom. As they stand together, united in prayer and purpose, they continue to write their narrative of hope, courage, and unwavering belief in a brighter future.
For more insights into the challenges faced by Christians in India, you can visit the Christian Solidarity Worldwide and Open Doors USA websites, which provide comprehensive resources and support for persecuted Christians worldwide.