Itanagar, June 20:
Indian Youth Congress (IYC) National General Secretary and Convener of the North East Youth Congress Coordination Committee, Tarh Johny, has submitted a memorandum to Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu seeking an immediate review and ban on activities allegedly carried out by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its affiliated organizations in the state. In the letter, Johny expressed concern that such activities are contributing to social division and disturbing the long-standing harmony among the indigenous tribal communities of Arunachal Pradesh.
The memorandum states that Arunachal Pradesh has historically been known for its rich indigenous traditions, cultural diversity, and peaceful coexistence among different tribes and faiths. However, Johny alleged that recent developments and public programmes have increasingly introduced religious narratives into tribal socio-cultural spaces, leading to unnecessary polarization among indigenous communities. He further claimed that attempts are being made to associate tribal identities with a particular religious identity, which could dilute the distinct customs, traditions, beliefs, and cultural heritage of the indigenous people of the state.
Highlighting the need to preserve Arunachal Pradesh's unique tribal character, Johny stated that such narratives could create divisions among tribes, generate social unrest, and weaken the secular fabric that has long characterized the state. He also expressed apprehension that indigenous people may be drawn into religious and ideological campaigns that serve political objectives rather than the genuine welfare and preservation of tribal culture. According to the memorandum, any effort that pits one tribal group against another or creates distinctions among indigenous communities on religious grounds poses a serious threat to communal harmony and stability.
In view of these concerns, the Youth Congress leader urged the state government to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into activities that may be promoting social or religious polarization among indigenous communities. He also called for a review of organizations whose activities are found to be creating disharmony, social unrest, or division among tribal groups. The memorandum further requested the government to take appropriate legal and administrative measures, including restrictions or bans on organizations found engaging in provocative activities.
Johny additionally appealed to the government to strengthen policies and programmes aimed at protecting and preserving the indigenous identity, traditions, and cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh. He stressed that no organization or individual should be allowed to exploit tribal identities for political or sectarian purposes. Expressing confidence in the state government's commitment to safeguarding peace, unity, secularism, and indigenous heritage, Johny sought prompt consideration of the representation.
Copies of the memorandum were also forwarded to the Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister, the Director General of Police (DGP), and all Deputy Commissioners of the state for information and necessary action. As of the filing of this report, no official response has been issued by either the Arunachal Pradesh Government or the RSS regarding the allegations and demands raised in the memorandum.
