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.

Viral Outcry Spurs Road Repairs at DIET College Yachuli

 

Yachuli, April 28:

Following widespread attention on social media over the poor condition of the road leading to DIET College, Yachuli, repair work has officially commenced, offering much-needed relief to students and local commuters.

The issue had gained momentum after videos and images of students highlighting the muddy and dilapidated road went viral, drawing public concern and calls for immediate action. The visual protest, including a student planting paddy on the road, had underscored the severity of the situation, especially during the rainy season.

Responding to the growing outcry, local MLA Toko Tatung initiated steps to address the issue. Road repair work began on April 28, 2026, at the BDO Complex stretch in Yachuli, which serves as a key access route for students of DIET College and residents of the area.

The development has been widely acknowledged as an example of how the power of social media, along with the role of media channels in highlighting public concerns, can bring attention to pressing issues. The consistent coverage and public engagement played a significant role in amplifying the voices of the students.

With repair work now underway, students and commuters have expressed relief and appreciation, noting that their concerns were finally heard. The incident reflects how collective voices, when supported by media platforms, can lead to timely action and positive change on the ground.

VKV Liromoba Fee Hike Sparks Parents’ Protest

 

Liromoba, April 26:

A group of parents under the banner of the Liromoba VKV Parents Group staged a protest against the recent hike in admission and related fees at Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya (VKV), Liromoba. The demonstrators marched with placards and raised slogans, voicing strong opposition to what they termed an “abrupt and unjustified” fee increase.

Protesters displayed banners outlining their key demands, including the immediate minimisation of admission fees and rollback of the revised fee structure. Many placards highlighted concerns over affordability, stressing that the sudden hike has placed a significant financial burden on families.

Beyond the fee issue, the parents also pointed out gaps in basic facilities. They demanded improved transportation services for students and teachers, better computer access, and the introduction of vocational support such as tailoring facilities with staff. Infrastructure development was another major concern, with calls for better classrooms, toilets, and hostel facilities.

Adding to the growing concern, social activist and General Secretary of the Private School and Children Welfare Association, Tana Tamar Tara, had earlier this month raised the issue publicly. He stated that institutions like VKV, which receive corpus funds from the government, should take responsibility in controlling fee hikes and work towards providing free education to tribal students from economically weaker backgrounds.

Tara further warned that if the issue remains unresolved, it could be escalated in the larger interest of the public. His remarks have amplified the debate around affordability and accountability in private educational institutions operating with government support.

The protest remained peaceful, with participants urging school authorities and concerned stakeholders to address their grievances promptly. The incident reflects a broader concern across regions over rising education costs and the need to ensure inclusive and affordable schooling.

CoSAAP, NMOPS to Hold April 17 Rally in Itanagar for OPS Restoration

 

Itanagar, April 13:

The Confederation of Service Associations of Arunachal Pradesh (CoSAAP), the apex body representing state government employees, along with the state unit of the National Movement for Old Pension Scheme (NMOPS), has announced a protest rally on April 17 in Itanagar. The rally aims to press for the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) by replacing the existing New Pension Scheme (NPS).

The rally is scheduled to begin from Ramakrishna Mission Hospital and will culminate at Indira Gandhi Park. Organisers expect participation from a large number of government employees across various departments and districts, making it one of the major employee-led demonstrations in recent times.

Speaking to reporters at the Arunachal Press Club on Monday, CoSAAP president Likha Tej said the demand for OPS has been raised repeatedly over the years, but has not received the desired response. “Employees across the state have been consistently demanding the restoration of OPS, as the current system does not provide adequate financial security after retirement,” he said.

He further stated that the association would continue its democratic movement and urged the government to take a serious and time-bound decision on the matter. According to CoSAAP, the issue directly affects the future of thousands of employees and their families.

Highlighting the differences between the two systems, CoSAAP leaders said the New Pension Scheme is market-linked and does not guarantee a fixed pension, unlike OPS which ensures a defined benefit after retirement. They added that this uncertainty has created concern among employees, especially those nearing retirement.

NMOPS state president Tamchi Tani also reiterated the demand and appealed to the government to address the issue at the earliest. He indicated that further steps would be discussed after the rally, depending on the response from the authorities.

Both CoSAAP and NMOPS have appealed to participants to maintain discipline and ensure that the protest remains peaceful. They also called on civil society organisations and the public to extend support to the movement.

The upcoming rally is expected to draw significant attention, as similar demands for the restoration of OPS have been gaining momentum in several states across the country.

Itanagar Rally Demands Justice for Murdered Teacher Yapi Potom

 

Itanagar, April 10:

A massive candlelight rally was held in Itanagar as thousands of people gathered to demand justice for Yapi Potom, a teacher from Chimpu Secondary School who was brutally killed by Daksen Riram.

The rally commenced from Akashdeep and concluded at the Tennis Court, with participants carrying candles, placards, and banners while raising emotional slogans. The demonstration reflected widespread public outrage and grief over the tragic incident.

The protest was jointly organised by the Kargu Kardi Welfare Society (KKWS) and Lodu Ao Welfare Society (LAWS), in collaboration with the Arunachal Teachers’ Association (ATA), Itanagar Capital Region. Several other organisations, including the Arunachal Pradesh Women’s Welfare Society, Galo Welfare Society (GWS), and Apatani Women Association Ziro (AWAZ), extended their support, along with members of the public.

During the rally, organisers and participants strongly called for swift justice and exemplary punishment for the culprit. They also demanded immediate compensation for the bereaved family, warning that any attempt to shield perpetrators of such heinous crimes would pose a serious threat to society.

Concerns were also raised regarding the safety of teachers, with calls for stronger protective measures to ensure their security in the workplace.

Meanwhile, Liromoba MLA Pesi Jilen announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh for the children who lost their mother, offering some relief to the grieving family.

AdiSU Bandh Violence as Stone Pelting Injures Police in Pasighat

 

Pasighat, April 8:

A 24-hour bandh called by the Adi Students’ Union (AdiSU) turned violent on Tuesday, with incidents of stone pelting reported from multiple locations across Pasighat. The unrest resulted in injuries to several police personnel and at least one civilian, escalating concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation in the region.

The bandh was announced by AdiSU following the detention of its Vice President Dutin Jamoh and former General Secretary Ton Boli during an incident at the Deputy Commissioner’s office earlier in the day. Protesting the action, the union warned that the shutdown would be strictly enforced if the detained members were not released within two hours.

Nongku Aje, President of the AdiSU East Siang Unit, held the district administration accountable for any consequences arising from the situation, alleging that the authorities’ actions had provoked public unrest.

Further intensifying the situation, Tanyo Burang, President of the AdiSU Upper Siang Unit, raised objections to the re-election process scheduled at Sibo village. He cautioned that proceeding with the election amid ongoing disputes could trigger further unrest and warned that both the district administration and the Adi Baane Kebang (ABK) would be held responsible for any untoward incidents.

With tensions continuing to rise, the situation in Pasighat remains volatile as authorities monitor developments closely ahead of the bandh and the controversial re-election process.

19 Siang Villages Submit Final Plea Against Siang Upper Project

 

Upper Siang, March 24:

In a significant development, 19 villages of the Siang Valley on Tuesday submitted the first phase of what they termed a “final and binding mass public representation” to the NHPC Regional Office in Pasighat, firmly opposing the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project.

The representation was submitted at around 9:00 AM to Amar Nath Jha, General Manager (Civil), NHPC, who also serves as the Head of Project for Siang Lower and Siang Basin Works. Jha has been actively involved in consultations with district authorities and local stakeholders across Siang and Upper Siang districts.

According to the representatives, the submission reflects a unanimous and non-negotiable mandate of the Adi community. The key resolutions outlined in the representation include:

Complete rejection of the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project dam

Opposition to any Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) activities

Immediate end to all discussions related to the project

Community leaders stated that this decision has emerged from traditional institutions and collective public consensus, declaring it final and binding.

Siang villagers submit representation
 to NHPC in Pasighat opposing the
Siang Upper Project

They further asserted that the remaining villages will soon submit their representations in a second phase, strengthening what they described as a unified stand of the Adi people.

Issuing a strong warning to NHPC, the government, and private power developers, the villagers emphasized that there is “zero consent” for any dam-related activities in the Siang Valley. They cautioned that any attempt to proceed with surveys, studies, agreements, or project implementation would be seen as a violation of indigenous rights, customary laws, and constitutional protections.

The statement also warned that if the mandate is ignored, the Adi people would be compelled to take appropriate action under their customary laws to safeguard their land, identity, and future.

Tawang Protest Over Alleged PWD Irregularities, Transfer Demanded

 

Large crowd gathers in Tawang
during a peaceful protest against
alleged PWD irregularities

Tawang, March 17, 2026:

A massive public protest unfolded in Tawang on Tuesday, with thousands of residents taking to the streets to voice strong opposition against alleged corruption, irregularities, and favouritism in the functioning of the Public Works Department (PWD) Tawang Division. The demonstration remained peaceful but drew significant participation from people across different sections of society, reflecting widespread concern over governance and transparency in public infrastructure works.

Protesters alleged that the process of awarding government tenders lacked fairness and accountability, leading to growing dissatisfaction among local stakeholders. Many participants expressed that such practices not only undermine development but also erode public trust in the system.

During the protest, the demonstrators collectively demanded the immediate transfer of Executive Engineer Er. Tadar Nyakpu and Assistant Engineer Er. Jumpe Ete. They also called for the initiation of a formal departmental inquiry into the functioning of the officials, alleging serious lapses in transparency and procedure. In addition, the protestors sought the cancellation of recently issued Notices Inviting Tender (NITs) dated February 11, and March 5 and 13, 2026, citing concerns over irregularities in the tendering process. Emphasizing long-term reforms, the public further urged the authorities to implement a transparent and accountable tendering system, particularly for projects valued above ₹50 lakh. 

Protesters burn an effigy during the
 demonstration in Tawang

As part of their course of action, the protestors submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner of Tawang, clearly outlining their grievances and demands. They issued a strict seven-day ultimatum for the authorities to respond and take necessary action. Protest leaders warned that failure to address the issues within the given timeframe would result in a more intensified and widespread democratic movement across the district.

The protest highlights rising public scrutiny over administrative functioning in the region. Officials have yet to release an official statement regarding the allegations and demands raised during the demonstration. No official response has been issued by the PWD Tawang Division at the time of filing this report.

ADISU Holds Two-Day Protest at ABK Office in Pasighat, Opposes Re-Election Move

 

Pasighat, March 17, 2026:

The Adi Students’ Union (ADISU), under the leadership of its newly elected President Gomle Ratan, staged a two-day peaceful protest from March 16 to 17 at the office of the Adi Bane Kebang (ABK) in Pasighat, voicing strong opposition to the decision to initiate a re-election process.

The protest witnessed participation from several ADISU members and supporters, who gathered to express their dissatisfaction over what they termed as an attempt to undermine the democratic process of the student body. The demonstrators emphasized that the issue not only concerns the union’s internal functioning but also has wider implications for unity within the Adi community.

Addressing the media during the protest, President Gomle Ratan stated that the ADISU election had already been conducted in accordance with established rules and procedures. He asserted that the election process was completed transparently and the results were officially finalized, leaving no room or justification for a re-election.

Ratan further alleged that the recent move by ABK to call for a fresh election has created confusion among members and raised serious concerns about interference in the union’s democratic framework. He stated that such actions risk weakening trust among students and could lead to unnecessary divisions.

The ADISU leadership firmly rejected the decision to conduct a re-election and reiterated their commitment to stand by the results that have already been declared. According to the union, any attempt to disregard the completed election undermines the collective mandate of the members who participated in the process.

ADISU members during the two-day
protest at ABK office in Pasighat. (Source: ADISU account)

During the course of the two-day protest, the union also highlighted that the agitation was carried out peacefully with the intention of safeguarding the rights of students and maintaining harmony within the community. Protesters called upon the concerned authorities to respect the democratic outcome and avoid actions that could disturb the unity between students and the Adi community as a whole.

President Ratan further cautioned that if any law and order situation arises due to the ongoing issue, responsibility would lie with those pushing for the re-election process. He maintained that ADISU has followed all proper procedures and that the current situation has arisen solely due to external decisions that contradict the completed electoral process.

The protest concluded with a clear demand from ADISU for the recognition and acceptance of the already conducted election results. The union urged ABK to reconsider its decision in the interest of maintaining unity, transparency, and democratic values within the organization and the broader Adi community.

ST Bachao Committee Announces Rally, Dharna Over Non-APST ST Issue

 

Itanagar, March 16, 2026:

The Arunachal ST Bachao Andolan Committee has announced a two-day protest programme, comprising a rally on March 24 followed by a dharna on March 25, to intensify its demand for the revocation of Scheduled Tribe (ST) status allegedly granted to non-Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe (Non-APST) individuals.

Addressing the media, committee representative Sol Dodum informed that the committee has been repeatedly seeking permission from the authorities to carry out the proposed democratic protest. However, permission has not been granted so far, with authorities citing the recently concluded legislative assembly session and the upcoming All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) elections as reasons.

Despite this, Dodum stated that the committee remains determined to proceed with the agitation. He said the rally is scheduled to begin from Akashdeep and culminate at Tennis Court on March 24, after which a dharna will be staged and continue until March 25. He further asserted that members of the committee are prepared to face detention or any legal consequences in the course of their protest.

The ST Bachao Andolan Committee has been consistently raising concerns over what it alleges to be the inclusion of Non-APST individuals in the ST category within Arunachal Pradesh. According to the committee, such inclusions pose a serious threat to the constitutional safeguards and protections specifically meant for the indigenous tribal communities of the state.

Highlighting the situation in Tawang district, Dodum alleged that several individuals of Tibetan origin have reportedly obtained ST status and Permanent Resident Certificates (PRCs) through maternal lineage. He claimed that such practices undermine the integrity of the system and could potentially deprive genuine beneficiaries of their rightful opportunities in areas such as education, employment, and political representation.

He emphasized that the issue is not only administrative but also deeply linked to the identity, cultural preservation, and socio-economic security of the indigenous tribal population of Arunachal Pradesh. The committee maintains that failure to address these concerns in a timely manner could lead to long-term implications for the state’s demographic and constitutional framework.

Reiterating its demands, the ST Bachao Andolan Committee has urged the state government and concerned authorities to initiate an immediate and transparent review process to identify and revoke ST status granted to Non-APST individuals. The committee also called for stricter verification mechanisms to prevent alleged misuse of ST certification in the future.

The upcoming protest, according to the committee, is aimed at drawing the attention of policymakers and the general public to what it describes as a critical issue affecting the rights and future of Arunachal Pradesh’s indigenous communities.

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.