10 Sacred Statues Stolen from Dirang Monastery

Thupsung Dhargye Ling Monastery, Dirang. (Image: Mon Rising)

Dirang, West Kameng, April 25:

A shocking theft at Thupsung Dhargye Ling Monastery in Dirang has left the local community distressed and outraged after ten sacred statues were reportedly stolen from the premises.

The incident came to light when members of the monastery discovered that several niches, once home to revered idols, had been left empty, with ten statues found missing from their designated places. The missing statues were not merely artistic creations but objects of deep spiritual importance, symbolizing faith, devotion, and the cultural heritage of the region.

Residents and devotees have expressed strong emotions over the incident, calling it a serious violation of a sacred space. Many described the loss as deeply personal, noting that the statues formed an integral part of their belief system and identity.

Empty niches mark missing sacred idols at Dirang monastery
(Image source: Mon Rising)

The theft has also raised concerns about the safety and security of religious institutions in the area. Monasteries, traditionally known for their openness and peaceful environment, may now face increasing pressure to adopt stronger protective measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

Community members have urged for swift action and the safe return of the stolen idols. At the same time, authorities are yet to issue any official statement regarding the incident.

Though it is not yet certain whether the theft at the Dirang monastery was carried out by visiting tourists or locals, recent incidents in western Arunachal Pradesh have drawn attention to a pattern of thefts involving tourists, particularly in popular destinations such as Tawang.

Just days ago, a woman tourist was reportedly captured on CCTV stealing clothes from a shop in Nehru Market in Tawang. In another incident, sacred items were stolen from Buddha Park in Tawang by a tourist from West Bengal, who was later apprehended. He was subsequently released after being pardoned by a monk from the Buddha Park.

The case has reignited broader discussions around the need to respect religious sites and preserve cultural heritage. As the situation unfolds, residents of Dirang continue to await clarity and hope for the recovery of the sacred statues.

Mama Natung Inaugurates Debeyar Circle HQ, Key Facilities Opened in East Kameng

 

Glimpses from the inauguration of key
infrastructure facilities at Nere, East Kameng
district. (Image: Mama Natung Facebook)

Nere, East Kameng, April 25:

In a significant push toward strengthening grassroots administration, Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung on Saturday inaugurated a series of key infrastructure facilities at the newly established Debeyar Circle Headquarters in Nere.

The inaugurated facilities include the Circle Office for the Debeyar Circle Officer, residential quarters for the Circle Officer, a Panchayat Bhawan, a Guest House, and a Forest Guest House. These developments are aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency and ensuring better service delivery in the region.

Addressing the gathering, the Home Minister emphasized that the establishment of the circle headquarters marks a crucial step in bringing governance closer to the people. He stated that decentralization of administrative services would significantly reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for basic government services.

Following the inauguration, Natung interacted with Gaon Buras, Panchayat members, and community representatives at the Nere General Ground. The event was attended by ZPC Smti Pai Pizi Yangfo, ZPM Shri Demo Cheri, Advocate Kasung Cheda, Shri Elosan Hiffo Tadung (ADC), and various Heads of Departments.

Officials confirmed that with the formal commencement of the Debeyar Circle Headquarters, essential public services such as issuance of Birth Certificates and Permanent Resident Certificates (PRCs) have started locally from today. The initiative aligns with the government’s “Seva Aapke Dwaar” approach, aimed at delivering accessible, inclusive, and people-centric governance at the grassroots level.

The move is expected to improve administrative outreach, strengthen local governance, and accelerate development activities in the region.

Pema Khandu Lauds Public Support for Subansiri Upper HEP

 

Itanagar, March 27:

Pema Khandu has lauded the people of Upper Subansiri for their active participation in the Environmental Public Hearing of the 1605 MW Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project, calling it a strong reflection of community engagement in the state’s development journey.

The public hearing, held on March 24 at Singik Hall in Daporijo, was conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board as part of the statutory process for environmental clearance. The session witnessed participation from public representatives, officials, NHPC Limited representatives, and local stakeholders.

Appreciating the conduct of the hearing, Khandu extended his gratitude to the local committee led by Rollen Dagam for ensuring a transparent, inclusive, and peaceful process. He also acknowledged receiving the Public Hearing Report submitted by the committee.

The Chief Minister emphasised that community participation remains central to the state’s development agenda. He noted that the overwhelming response from stakeholders, including affected families, indicates growing public confidence in the project and its potential benefits.

During the hearing, project authorities presented details on environmental safeguards, socio-economic benefits, and developmental prospects. Stakeholders were given the opportunity to raise concerns, particularly regarding compensation and local impacts, which were addressed as part of the consultative process.

Khandu reiterated that the Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project is a key infrastructure initiative that will generate employment, strengthen local economies, and enhance revenue for the state. He further highlighted provisions such as allocation of 2% of the project cost for local area development, including direct financial benefits to affected families.

Reaffirming the government’s long-term vision, Khandu stated that with people at the heart of every milestone, Arunachal Pradesh is steadily progressing towards becoming India’s hydropower capital, while ensuring environmental sustainability and addressing local concerns.