Likabali, April 27:
The Apex Customary Court Building of Lower Siang district was formally inaugurated on Tuesday at Likabali by Kardo Nyigyor, Deputy Speaker of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly and MLA of Likabali.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of Gobi Nyicyor and Bomken Basar, along with heads of departments, administrative officials, and members of the Lower Siang District Gao Bura and Buri Welfare Association, including its president Jamar Karlo and secretary Geto Taba. Gaon Buras and Buris from across the district also attended the event.
Addressing the gathering, Nyigyor emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness and proper upkeep of the newly inaugurated facility. He issued a strong advisory that serious offences such as molestation, rape, fire-related incidents, and other cognizable crimes must not be resolved at the village level. Instead, such cases should be reported promptly to the police and appropriate legal authorities. He warned that informal settlements in such matters could lead to legal complications if later scrutinized by courts.
Highlighting administrative priorities, the Deputy Speaker also drew attention to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and the upcoming 2027 Population Census. He urged Gaon Buras and Buris to cooperate fully with officials, ensure accurate data collection, and promote self-enumeration within the stipulated timeline.
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| Public gathering during inauguration ceremony |
Deputy Commissioner Nyicyor proposed renaming the facility as the “District Apex Customary Court,” noting that the current nomenclature could create ambiguity regarding its jurisdiction across the state. He further called on community leaders to uphold fairness, transparency, and impartiality while adjudicating disputes under customary practices.
Superintendent of Police Basar underscored the shared responsibility between law enforcement agencies and traditional village institutions. He stressed the need for discipline and integrity to maintain public trust and highlighted their role in preserving order at the grassroots level, including regulating hunting practices and discouraging the use of harmful chemicals in fishing.
Senior public leader Gumke Riba also addressed the gathering, emphasizing coordinated efforts among institutions, effective law enforcement, and active public participation in governance and development initiatives.
The newly inaugurated building is expected to significantly strengthen the district’s traditional justice delivery system by providing a dedicated and structured space for customary legal proceedings. It aims to enhance accessibility, efficiency, and institutional credibility while preserving indigenous dispute resolution practices.
Officials and community members expressed optimism that the facility will play a vital role in promoting justice, order, and community harmony in Lower Siang district.
