Illegal Cattle Transport Foiled in Itanagar, 3 Arrested After Police Chase

 

Itanagar, April 30:

A swift naka operation by Chimpu Police in the early hours of Thursday successfully foiled an attempt to illegally transport cattle at Baath Village, Itanagar. The operation was carried out with support from CRPF personnel.

The naka team intercepted a suspicious vehicle (AS-01-BW-5707, an Ertiga) that attempted to breach the checkpoint at high speed. Despite clear signals to stop, the driver deliberately rammed the police team in an apparent attempt to escape, endangering their lives.

Demonstrating prompt action and courage, the police chased and intercepted the vehicle. However, the occupants initially managed to flee under the cover of darkness.

During the incident, Sub-Inspector Tate Nabam sustained a head injury, while Constable J. Libang suffered a leg injury while performing their duties. Both are currently undergoing treatment at RKM Hospital, Itanagar.

Upon inspection of the vehicle, six cattle were found being transported in a highly cruel and inhumane manner. One of the animals had died due to suffocation.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the cattle had been stolen from the Bassarnillo area under Balijan Police Station and were being transported towards Banderdewa for slaughter and illegal sale of meat.

Cattle rescued from vehicle during naka operation

Police suspect the involvement of a well-organized interstate cattle theft gang operating along the Arunachal Pradesh–Assam border. The accused are reportedly linked to previous cases registered in Itanagar, as well as Bongalmara and Bihpuria in Assam, and had earlier been released on bail.

Following a manhunt, two accused, Dilbag Hussain and Anarul Haque, were apprehended and arrested. Another individual, Ashok Yangfo of 5/1 Banderdewa, was also arrested for allegedly receiving stolen cattle and facilitating the illegal meat trade in coordination with the group.

A case (Chimpu PS Case No. 33/2026) has been registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the Motor Vehicles Act.

Further investigation is underway to apprehend other members involved and dismantle the entire network.

The Superintendent of Police commended the bravery and professionalism of the Chimpu Police team led by SI Tate Nabam. He also praised the prompt follow-up action by SDPO Chera Saban and Officer-in-Charge Inspector N. Nishant, under the supervision of SP Jummar Basar. Multiple teams have been deployed to track down the remaining accused.

Tawang Rally Demands Swift Justice in Minor Abuse Case

Tawang, April 30:

A large-scale peaceful protest rally was held today in Tawang, condemning the alleged sexual abuse of a minor girl from Lumla and demanding swift justice along with strict punishment for all accused.

The rally commenced from Old Market Mani and proceeded towards the Deputy Commissioner’s Office. Students, youth bodies, civil society groups, NGOs, and local residents participated in significant numbers, expressing solidarity with the survivor and her family.

The demonstration was attended by Lumla MLA Tsering Lhamu, ZPM Tawang Block Sonam Nordzin, members of the WWA Tawang, various student organizations, and members of the public. Organizers emphasized that the protest was peaceful, urging participants to maintain discipline and unity while raising their voices against crimes targeting women and children.

Huge Public Gathering at Old Market Mani. ( Image: Jambey Tsering)

The protest follows a disturbing case involving an 11-year-old girl who was allegedly subjected to repeated abuse around two years ago. Authorities have arrested three accused individuals, while others remain absconding. 

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to probe the case, collect evidence, and track down the remaining suspects.

The incident has triggered widespread outrage across the region. Organizations such as the All Dakpa Pangchen Students' Union have strongly demanded expedited legal action to ensure justice for the victim.

The rally served as a unified call from the community, stressing that such crimes must not be repeated and that justice must be delivered without delay.

Man Held with Heroin, Cannabis at Likabali Check Gate

 

Accused Semmar Basar with Likabali Police.

Likabali, April 29:

Likabali, Apr 29: In a significant action against illegal drug trafficking, the Likabali Police apprehended an individual with suspected narcotic substances during a routine check at the Likabali Check Gate on Tuesday afternoon.

According to official sources, the incident took place at around 3:30 PM when police personnel intercepted one person identified as Semmar Basar, a resident of Nyigam village under Basar in Leparada district, Arunachal Pradesh, based on suspicion. A search operation was carried out following due legal procedures in the presence of an Executive Magistrate and independent witnesses.

During the search, police recovered suspected narcotic substances, including heroin and cannabis, from his possession.

Seized Narcotics From The Accused.

In connection with the seizure, a case has been registered at Likabali Police Station under Case No. 14/2026, invoking Sections 21(a) and 20(b)(ii)(A) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Further investigation into the matter is currently underway.

The accused has been arrested and produced before the competent court for necessary legal proceedings.

Reaffirming its commitment to curb drug-related activities, the Likabali Police urged the public to cooperate and report any information related to narcotics to help maintain law and order in the region.

A.G. Perarivalan Enrols as Advocate at Madras High Court

 

Chennai, April 29:

A. G. Perarivalan, who spent over three decades in prison in connection with the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, has now enrolled as an advocate and will practice at the Madras High Court.

Perarivalan, now 54, formally enrolled with the Bar Council of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry on Monday, marking a transition from being an accused and convict within the legal system to becoming a practicing lawyer in the same system.

He stated that his years in prison since 1991 have shaped his perspective, and he intends to focus on cases related to wrongful detention, delays in the justice system, and the rights of undertrial prisoners. He also expressed his intention to provide legal assistance to inmates who lack adequate representation.

Perarivalan was arrested at the age of 19 in connection with the 1991 assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, an attack attributed to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. The allegation against him was that he procured a nine-volt battery, which was later used in the improvised explosive device involved in the assassination. This claim was supported by testimony from a shopkeeper during the investigation.

The case was registered under the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA). In 1998, a TADA court convicted Perarivalan and others for conspiracy to murder, awarding him the death sentence. The conviction and sentence were upheld by the Supreme Court of India in 1999.

In 2014, the Supreme Court commuted his death sentence to life imprisonment, citing an 11-year delay by the Government of India in deciding his mercy petition. After spending over 30 years in custody, including a prolonged period on death row, Perarivalan was released in May 2022. The Supreme Court ordered his release by invoking its powers under Article 142 of the Constitution, taking into account delays in the executive process and other relevant factors.

During his imprisonment, Perarivalan pursued education, completing diploma and degree courses in computer applications and literature. After his release, he completed his legal studies, which enabled his enrolment as an advocate.

With his entry into the legal profession, Perarivalan is expected to work on issues concerning prisoners’ rights and access to justice, drawing on his personal experience within the criminal justice system.

Arunachal Deploys Thermal Drones to Boost Wildlife Protection

 

Itanagar, April 29:

The Arunachal Pradesh Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has introduced high-tech thermal drones and launched a week-long hands-on training programme to strengthen wildlife protection and address rising human-wildlife conflict.

The training, inaugurated on April 29 in Itanagar by Forest Minister Wangki Lowang, will continue until May 5 at the PCCF office. The initiative focuses on equipping frontline forest personnel with technical skills to operate thermal drones for surveillance, rescue missions, and conflict management.

Five thermal drones have been deployed in key conflict-prone and ecologically sensitive areas, Namdapha Tiger Reserve, Deomali Division, Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Nampong Division, and Itanagar Biological Park. These drones use thermal imaging to monitor wildlife movement in dense forests and low-visibility conditions, enabling faster response to threats such as poaching, illegal trade, encroachment, and animal straying incidents.

The move comes amid increasing incidents of human-animal conflict in the state, including fatal encounters involving elephants and tigers. Officials stated that thermal drones have already proven effective in recent operations in Deomali and Sunpura, where rogue elephants were tracked following deadly attacks.

The programme is being conducted by RNR Unmanned Aerial Systems Pvt. Ltd., which has deployed expert trainers to provide practical field-level instruction. Alongside drones, the department is also upgrading response capabilities with modern rescue vehicles, tranquilising equipment, and surveillance tools.

Senior officials, including PCCF (in-charge) N. Tam and Additional PCCF Debendra Dalai, highlighted that the integration of drone technology will improve forest monitoring, aid in early detection of illegal activities and forest fires, and support biodiversity conservation.

The initiative marks a significant step in Arunachal Pradesh’s efforts to modernise forest management and ensure safer coexistence between humans and wildlife.

Chera Loku Wins Silver at World Taijiquan

 

Itanagar, April 29:

Chera Loku delivered an impressive performance at the 5th World Taijiquan Championships held in Burgas, winning a silver medal while competing against top athletes from 38 countries.

Competing in a highly competitive field, Loku showcased exceptional control, precision, and technique in Taijiquan, earning her a podium finish at one of the sport’s premier international events. Her performance stands out as a significant achievement for Indian Wushu, reflecting both her individual dedication and the steady rise of the discipline in the country.

The championship, organized under the aegis of the International Wushu Federation, was held from April 23 to 30, 2026, with core competitions conducted between April 26 and 29. The event brought together elite Taijiquan practitioners from around the world, featuring multiple disciplines and categories that tested athletes on technical precision, balance, and artistic expression.

The achievement has brought recognition to Arunachal Pradesh, reinforcing the state’s growing reputation as a hub of sporting talent, particularly in martial arts. Loku’s success is being seen as an inspiration for young athletes from the region aspiring to compete at the global level.

Congratulating her, Kento Jini described the feat as a proud moment for the state and the nation. He lauded her dedication and hard work, stating that such performances highlight the potential of athletes from Arunachal Pradesh on the international stage.

The minister also acknowledged the role of Maibam Premchandra Singh, crediting his guidance and training for the athlete’s success, and expressed confidence in her continued success at future international competitions.

Union Minister B. L. Verma Reviews Impact of Central Schemes in Ziro

 

Union Minister B. L. Verma interacts with staffs at 
Ayushman Arogya Mandir (HWC), at Siiro.

Ziro, April 28:

Union Minister B. L. Verma concluded a comprehensive field assessment in Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh, evaluating the on-ground implementation of key Central Government schemes aimed at improving housing, food security, healthcare, and rural livelihoods.

During the visit, the Minister inspected housing units constructed under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) at Pai Gate, where beneficiaries shared firsthand accounts of how the initiative has enabled access to safe and dignified housing. Emphasizing the government’s commitment to “Housing for All,” Verma reviewed construction quality, beneficiary coverage, and timely delivery of assistance.

In Hong village, the Minister visited the Punyo Fair Price Shop operating under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). He assessed the distribution system of subsidized food grains and interacted with local residents to understand accessibility, transparency, and efficiency in the Public Distribution System (PDS). Officials briefed him on supply chain mechanisms and efforts to curb leakages.

Highlighting a holistic approach to rural development, Verma also toured the Hong Health & Wellness Centre, where he reviewed healthcare services provided under the Ayushman Bharat initiative. He interacted with medical staff and patients, focusing on primary healthcare delivery, availability of essential medicines, and outreach services in remote areas.

The Minister further visited the Integrated Aqua Park at Siiro, a key project aimed at modernizing aquaculture practices in the Apatani plateau. The facility integrates traditional farming knowledge with scientific techniques to enhance fish production and diversify local livelihoods. Officials explained how such initiatives are helping boost income generation while preserving the ecological balance of the region.

Speaking to officials and community members, Verma stated that field-level assessments are crucial to bridge gaps between policy formulation and implementation. He reiterated that the Centre remains committed to ensuring that flagship schemes deliver tangible benefits to every eligible beneficiary, particularly in remote and tribal regions.

Local authorities, including district officials and representatives, accompanied the Minister during the visit and assured continued efforts to strengthen implementation frameworks. The visit is expected to further streamline coordination among departments and accelerate developmental outcomes in the region.

4 Held in Lohit Highway Extortion Case

 

Tezu, April 28:

Tezu, April 28: Police in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lohit district have foiled an alleged armed extortion attempt targeting a highway construction project and arrested four individuals, officials confirmed on Tuesday.

The case came to light following a complaint lodged on April 27, alleging that officials and workers engaged in a National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) project at Tidding were being threatened by persons claiming to be members of the “All Arunachal Pradesh Reformed Delinquent Association (AAPRDA).”

According to police, the accused had been demanding money from project authorities. On April 23, they allegedly entered the construction site armed with firearms and issued threats of serious consequences if their demands were not met.

Acting swiftly, Tezu Police registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Arms Act and initiated an investigation.

Based on specific intelligence inputs, the suspects were traced to Roing in Lower Dibang Valley district. With assistance from local police, all four were apprehended on April 28.

Seized Items from the Accuseds.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Ngurang John (39), Gangte Hamak (38), Tai Apa (37), all residents of Kurung Kumey district, and Tassar Kossum (35) from Kra Dadi district.

During the operation, police recovered a cache of arms and ammunition, including a single-barrel breech-loading gun, an air gun, a .32 pistol, and several live cartridges. Additionally, mobile phones, cash, documents, a diary, and official-looking materials such as a seal and stamp pad were seized.

Investigators also uncovered a detailed list of construction companies operating across multiple districts, along with project-related information and cost estimates, suggesting a broader and potentially organised plan to target development projects in the state.

Further investigation into the case is ongoing.

BJP Targets Congress Over Women’s Reservation at Itanagar Padyatra

 

Itanagar, April 28:

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Arunachal Pradesh unit, held a “Jan Aakrosh Mahila Mashal Padyatra” protesting against the Indian National Congress and its allies over their opposition to the proposed 33% Women’s Reservation Bill, 2026.

The march began from the party’s state headquarters and proceeded along the National Highway, with participants carrying torches as part of the demonstration.

Key participants included Junty Singpho (State General Secretary), Nyabi Dirchi (MLA), and Nabam Yahi Tad (State President, BJP Mahila Morcha, Arunachal Pradesh). 

They addressed the media during the event, stating that opposition to the Women’s Reservation Bill would affect women’s opportunities in legislative bodies and called for a clear position from Congress and its allies.

BJP leaders accused opposition parties, including the Indian National Congress, All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), and TMK, of blocking women’s political representation and described their stance as “anti-women.” They urged clarity from the opposition and reaffirmed the BJP’s commitment to women’s empowerment and greater participation in governance.

MLA Nyabi Dirchi noted that Arunachal Pradesh currently has only four women MLAs but said the proposed bill could significantly increase women’s representation in the state.

Tawang Hosts Capacity-Building Programme on Balanced Fertilizer Use

 

Tawang, April 28:

A capacity-building programme focusing on the balanced use of fertilizers, along with the distribution of agricultural inputs under the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP), was successfully held on 28th April 2026 at the Nuranang Convention Hall in Jang. The initiative was jointly organized by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute and Krishi Vigyan Kendra Tawang.

ZPC Tawang, Leki Gombu, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Dr. M. C. Meena, Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer (Tribal Sub-Plan), IARI, ICAR New Delhi, attended as the Guest of Honour. The event also witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including ZPM Mogto Bongkhar Pema Tsering, Circle Officers Dr. Khoda Oniya and Tage Moonya, FPC Chairperson Nawang Chonzom, ADO Jang Cimey Dolkar, public leader Dorjee Wangchu, and farmers from across the Jang subdivision.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Meena highlighted the significance of the Tribal Sub-Plan scheme and emphasized the adoption of modern scientific practices to enhance agricultural productivity and value addition. He stressed the importance of maintaining soil health through regular soil testing and encouraged farmers to participate in training programmes conducted by government agencies. He also advocated natural farming practices to prevent soil erosion and noted that future agricultural success will increasingly depend on balanced nutritional quality. “While awareness exists, farmers need more technical guidance to fully benefit,” he remarked.

In his address, ZPC Leki Gombu urged farmers to effectively utilize the technologies introduced by experts and focus on improving crop production through soil health management. He appreciated KVK Tawang for initiating trials of white millet seeds, particularly VL Mandua 382, along with the introduction of millet threshers. He also expressed gratitude to the state government for providing subsidized agricultural schemes such as drip irrigation, polyhouses, solar fencing, and high-yielding seeds.

The ZPC further encouraged farmers to take advantage of government schemes to move toward self-reliance. He strongly promoted organic farming and discouraged the burning of kitchen and food waste, advocating instead for composting as a sustainable alternative.

Other speakers, including ZPM Pema Tsering, COs Khoda Oniya and Tage Moniya, FPC Chairperson Nawang Chonzom, and public leader Dorjee Wangchu, also addressed the gathering, sharing their insights and support for the farming community.

During the programme, Keshram Dulait from the Department of Food Engineering and Technology, Tezpur University, was felicitated for his valuable contribution as a resource person in training programmes conducted in Lungla and Jang.

Earlier Dr.Anjanand Tripathy Senior Scientist cum Head KVK Tawang extended welcome to all present.

The event concluded with the distribution of agricultural inputs to farmers by ZPC Leki Gombu, followed by a vote of thanks delivered by public leader Tenzin Wangchu. The programme ended on a positive note, with renewed commitment toward strengthening sustainable agricultural practices in Tawang district.

Centre Targets 2029 to End Northeast Insurgency

 

New Delhi, April 27:

Following sustained success in curbing Left-Wing Extremism, particularly against groups such as the Communist Party of India (Maoist), People's Liberation Guerrilla Army, and Maoist Communist Centre, the Centre has redirected its security focus toward ending insurgency in Northeast India, setting an ambitious deadline of 2029. The initiative will begin with Manipur as the primary focus area.

According to a report by Hindustan Times, the government plans to redeploy Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), particularly specialized units like the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), from former Maoist-affected regions to insurgency-affected northeastern states including Manipur, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland. The phased redeployment is expected to commence after the West Bengal Assembly Elections and the Amarnath Yatra later this year.

Officials indicated that Manipur remains the most affected state, accounting for 77% of all insurgency-related incidents in the Northeast in 2024. Of the 16 active insurgent groups across the region, 8 are based in Manipur, followed by 3 in Assam, 2 each in Meghalaya and Tripura, and 1 in Nagaland. The state recorded 226 insurgency-related cases last year, the highest in the region.

Security preparations are already underway, including the deployment of mine-protected and bulletproof vehicles to sensitive districts such as Ukhrul. In parallel, the Centre has directed the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) to intensify crackdowns on drug trafficking networks, which are believed to finance insurgent activities.

The Centre’s strategy combines targeted security operations, force redistribution, and strengthened anti-narcotics measures, with the goal of making the Northeast insurgency-free by 2029.