East Siang Hunger Strike Enters Day 4; Two Protesters Hospitalised

 

East Siang, February 25, 2026:

The hunger strike staged by mothers from Ngorlung and Ralung villages against a ferro-silicon factory at the Industrial Growth Centre in Niglok enters its fourth day on Thursday, with protesters demanding the permanent closure or relocation of the plant over alleged risks to public health and safety.

The agitation targets the factory operated by M/s Aether Alloys LLP, with local residents claiming that the unit poses serious environmental and safety concerns for nearby communities. Participants of the indefinite hunger strike have gathered at the Ralung Village Community Hall, stating that the protest will continue until authorities respond to their demands.

Tensions rose on Wednesday morning after two protesters fell ill during the agitation and were admitted to Ruksin CHC (FRU) for medical treatment, highlighting growing concern among villagers over the health of those participating in the fast.

Community members say the movement reflects wider anxiety about pollution, environmental protection, and long-term livelihood issues in the area, while an official response from the concerned authorities is still awaited.

BSUs Issue Joint Resolution Recognizing Ashok Doka as ANSU President Amid Institutional Crisis

Itanagar, February 16,  2026:

 A collective of Branch Students’ Unions (BSUs) representing Nyishi-inhabited districts has issued a joint resolution formally recognizing Shri Ashok Doka as the President of the All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU). The resolution, dated February 16, cites what it describes as a “grave and alarming institutional crisis” within the organization.

According to the document, the BSUs alleged persistent misuse of constitutional authority by the incumbent leadership, claiming it had led to erosion of institutional integrity, democratic functioning, and public confidence in the union. The signatory unions stated that, as federal units of ANSU, they are constitutionally and socially obligated to safeguard the organization’s unity, discipline, and objectives.

Following deliberations, the BSUs declared that Ashok Doka would be recognized as the legitimate president and affirmed their “full support and unwavering solidarity” with his leadership in the larger interest of unity, democratic representation, and organizational stability. The resolution further noted that the declaration was made under the collective mandate and representative authority of the BSUs and would be deemed valid and binding for organizational and representative purposes.

Joint Resolution of the Branch Students Union

The development comes amid ongoing debates over leadership legitimacy within ANSU, reflecting broader concerns about governance and stability within the student body. No immediate response from the opposing leadership faction was mentioned in the resolution.

Earlier, on February 15, 2026, representatives from six Nyishi-inhabited District Students’ Unions- Papum Pare, Kurung Kumey, Kra Daadi, Keyi Panyor, Kamle, and Pakke Kessang,  held a joint meeting and declared Ashok Doka as President of the All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU) for the 2024–27 session.

Kimin Drug & Fake Currency Bust; One Arrested

 

Photo: DMK News

Kimin, February 15, 2026

Papumpare Police conducted a successful operation in Kimin on February 15, 2026, busting a suspected drug and counterfeit currency racket and arresting one individual.

Acting on a credible tip-off, a police team led by SDPO Radhe Obing carried out the operation, during which authorities seized 39 vials of suspected heroin, three bundles of counterfeit currency notes, and a Hyundai i-10 vehicle allegedly used in the illegal activities.

The arrested person has been identified as Musfikul Ali, a resident of Lakhimpur. Police officials confirmed that a case has been registered at Kimin Police Station under relevant sections of law.

Investigations are currently underway to verify the source of the contraband and determine the involvement of other possible suspects linked to the racket.

IAF Launches High-Altitude Operations to Tame Walong Wildfire in Anjaw District

 

Anjaw, February 15, 2026:

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Sunday launched sustained high-altitude aerial firefighting operations in Arunachal Pradesh’s Anjaw district, under Walong Circle, to contain a forest fire raging in the Lohit Valley region at elevations above 9,500 feet.

According to details shared on the official Indian Air Force account, IAF helicopters have been undertaking continuous sorties, releasing over 12,000 litres of water to contain the blaze. Operating in thin air, rugged terrain, and challenging weather conditions, the crews are carrying out precise water drops to slow the fire’s advance. The operation remains ongoing as authorities work to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem and nearby habitats from potential damage.

Earlier on Friday, Hayuliang MLA Dasanglu Pul expressed serious concern over the wildfire, urging residents and travellers to follow official safety advisories and avoid any reckless actions that could endanger lives, property, or the environment. She warned that anyone deliberately causing harm would face strict legal action and called on the public to support frontline responders as efforts continue to tame the wildfire. 

Hayuliang MLA Dasanglu Pul Calls for Vigilance as Wildfire Impacts Walong in Anjaw

Walong, February 13, 2026

Hayuliang MLA Dasanglu Pul has expressed serious concern over an ongoing wildfire affecting parts of Walong in Anjaw district, urging residents and travelers to strictly follow safety advisories issued by authorities.

Sharing a video from the affected area, Pul appealed to the public to exercise extreme caution while traveling through the region, stressing that the safety of communities must remain the top priority amid the situation.

Describing Walong as a region of serene natural beauty and shared heritage, the minister called on local inhabitants to refrain from any reckless actions that could endanger lives, property, and the environment.

Issuing a strong warning, she stated that anyone found deliberately causing harm or attempting to disrupt peace and damage the landscape would face strict action in accordance with the law.

Pul also urged people to stand together in supporting frontline responders and to work collectively to safeguard the environment while ensuring the well-being of citizens as efforts continue to control the fire.

CM Pema Khandu Inaugurates New Administrative Block at Sera Jey Monastery in Tawang

Tawang, February 13, 2026: 

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the new Administrative Block of Sera Jey Jamyang Choekhorling Monastery in Tawang in the presence of Venerable Geshe Lobsang Norbu la, Chief Administrator of Sera Jey Monastery, Karnataka, His Eminence Dolhe Rinpoche Tenzin Kunkhyen la, Abbot of the monastery, and other dignitaries.

The newly developed infrastructure is expected to significantly enhance administrative efficiency, improve residential facilities, and strengthen the learning environment for monks and students. The initiative marks a step forward in supporting monastic education and preserving the region’s spiritual heritage.

“CM Pema Khandu during the inauguration ceremony at Sera Jey Jamyang Choekhorling Monastery.”

On the occasion, the State Bank of India, Tawang Branch, donated a school bus to the monastery, an initiative welcomed by attendees as a meaningful contribution toward the welfare and mobility of children associated with the institution.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister highlighted that monasteries continue to serve as living centres of culture, discipline, learning, and compassion, emphasizing that supporting such institutions remains a shared responsibility of society.

Elderly Man Dies in Simong Village Fire in Upper Siang

 

Upper Siang, February 12, 2026:

An 80-year-old man, identified as Tabo Danggen, died after a devastating fire reportedly triggered by a kitchen accident destroyed a residential house at Simong Village in Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Siang district at around 11 AM on Thursday.

According to initial reports, the blaze rapidly engulfed the house, leaving it completely gutted. Local authorities reached the spot soon after the incident, while the district administration initiated relief measures for the affected family.

MLA Alo Libang visited the site along with Deputy Commissioner Talo Jerang, Superintendent of Police Token Saring, and District Disaster Management Officer (DDMO) Anie Yangfo. The team assessed the extent of the damage and extended immediate assistance.

Officials and local residents inspect the remains of a house gutted by a fire at Simong Village in Upper Siang district on February 12, 2026.

Officials stated that necessary formalities for ex gratia relief and compensation for the destroyed house are currently underway as per government norms. The district administration conveyed deep condolences to the bereaved family and assured continued support during the difficult period.

Rescued Fawn from Seppa West Sent to Itanagar Biological Park for Care and Rehabilitation

 

Home minister Mama Natung with officials of Itanagar biological park.

Itanagar, Feb 12, 2026

A vulnerable fawn was rescued in Richukrong Circle’s Talamsima Village under the 11-Seppa West Assembly Constituency and safely brought to the attention of authorities. The animal has been handed over to Itanagar Biological Park for proper care and rehabilitation, officials said.

Tani Tagio of Richukrong Circle carried out the rescue, ensuring the young animal’s safe transfer. State Home Minister Mama Natung lauded the effort, stating that such actions reflect a growing public consciousness toward wildlife protection. He also highlighted the ongoing initiative encouraging voluntary surrender of firearms to curb illegal hunting, noting that community participation continues to strengthen conservation measures.

Rescued Fawn 

Authorities emphasized that safeguarding forests and biodiversity remains a shared responsibility and a collective commitment for future generations.

Dr Menuka Kadu Receives Overall Best Presentation Award at International FOW 2026 Conference

Bali, Feb 10, 2026

Dr Menuka Kadu, Assistant Professor and Head of the Social Work Department at Arunachal Pradesh University (APU), Pasighat, has won the Overall Best Presentation Award at the 9th International Conference on The Future of Women (FOW 2026) held in Bali, Indonesia, from February 9–10.

She received the honour for her research paper, “Silenced Bodies, Formed Identities: Tribal Girls’ Menstrual Experiences in Northeast India,” recognised for its strong methodology and contribution to feminist research. The study examines how menstrual stigma shapes gender socialisation among girls from the Galo, Adi and Idu Mishmi communities.

The conference brought together more than 1,200 delegates from 50 countries under the theme “Feminist Perspectives in GLocal Contexts.” Dr Kadu was the only representative from Northeast India, presenting regional perspectives alongside international scholars. The event was organised by the International Institute of Knowledge Management (TIIKM) and included discussions on gender-based violence, economic justice and women’s leadership.

PWD Junior Engineer Driver Arrested in Itanagar – Arunachal News 2026

What happened 

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Itanagar, on Friday arrested a junior engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD) along with his driver for allegedly demanding a bribe of ₹8 lakh.

Police statement

Those arrested have been identified as Techi Joram Tara (35), Junior Engineer posted under PWD Capital Division-B, Itanagar, and his driver, Iken Riba (33). According to the ACB, the duo was apprehended red-handed during a trap operation carried out under Itanagar police station jurisdiction.

Latest update

The ACB stated that further investigation is underway. Reiterating the government’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption, the bureau has appealed to citizens to promptly report any instances of bribery or corrupt practices.