Rahul Gandhi Praises Unity at North East Music Festival in Delhi

 

New Delhi, February 22, 2026:

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi attended the North East Music Festival – Sound Without Conflict at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi, highlighting the cultural vibrancy and unity of India’s North Eastern region. Sharing his experience on social media after the event, Gandhi described the evening as a powerful celebration of diversity, stating that the music and spirit of the North East reflect the country’s true strength.

Held on February 22, the festival made its Delhi debut as a cultural platform blending folk, indie, rock and hip-hop music rooted in the traditions of the North East. Designed to promote peaceful coexistence and dialogue, the event also featured curated food experiences, storytelling spaces and community interactions aimed at strengthening cultural exchange. 

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Manipur MP Bimol Akoijam 

The lineup showcased a wide range of artists from the region. Performances included folk musician Rewben Mashangva, singer-songwriter Taba Chake, hip-hop artists Reble and Borkung Hrangkhawl, and the Tetseo Sisters, while rock band Parikrama delivered a high-energy finale alongside Rudy Wallang and Girish Pradhan of GATC. 

According to reports, Gandhi interacted with several performers during the event and praised the festival’s theme “Sound Without Conflict,” describing it as a reminder that India grows stronger when every culture receives its rightful space. The festival aimed to bring wider national attention to North East music and create an inclusive space where art becomes a bridge for unity and dialogue. 

Two Alleged Drug Peddlers Held with Heroin in Banderdewa

 

Banderdewa, February 22, 2026: 

Banderdewa Police arrested two alleged drug peddlers on Saturday afternoon and seized 10.95 grams of suspected heroin during an operation at Niya Colony.

Acting on specific intelligence, police intercepted a Bajaj Pulsar motorcycle (AS-07W-0148) and apprehended Shivaji Morang (28) and Sarat Kutum (30), both residents of Lakhimpur district in Assam. The contraband, reportedly concealed inside a blue soap case, was recovered from Morang’s possession.

Seized item

A case (BDW/PS/C.No. 12/26) has been registered under Sections 21(b) and 29 of the NDPS Act, and further investigation is in progress.

Superintendent of Police, ICR Naharlagun, Dr. Nyelam Nega, appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the fight against drug trafficking.

West Siang Police Bust Two Drug Cases in Aalo, Two Arrested

 

Aalo, February 22, 2026:

West Siang District Police have registered a major success against narcotics trafficking after cracking two separate drug-related cases in Aalo, leading to the arrest of two accused — Ronal Reyal, a Head Constable (SG) in the Arunachal Pradesh Police, and Henge Bagra.

Acting on sustained surveillance and intelligence gathered by the Anti-Drug Squad, the operations were carried out under the supervision of Superintendent of Police Kardak Riba. Officials said the back-to-back cases highlight the district’s intensified campaign to curb drug peddling.

Case No. 1 – Aalo PS Case No. 07/2026 (u/s 21(b) NDPS Act)

A team led by DySP Duto Bagra conducted a house search at the residence of Henge Bagra after serving notice under Section 50 of the NDPS Act. The search was carried out in the presence of a town magistrate and independent witnesses to ensure transparency.

Police recovered suspected heroin stored in ten tobacco containers, weighing approximately 12.26 grams in total (inclusive of plastic pouches). A Tecno Pova Curve 5G mobile phone with two SIM cards and a red bucket were also seized. The entire operation was videographed, and all items were sealed on the spot. The accused was arrested, and the case is being investigated by L/Insp Maloty Tayeng.

Seized items from the accused.

Case No. 2 – Aalo PS Case No. 08/2026 (u/s 21(b)/27A/20 NDPS Act)

Following credible information about drug peddling involving a police personnel, another team led by DySP (HQ) Taba Biroy apprehended Ronal Reyal near his rented house in Upper Colony, Aalo. Searches were conducted in the presence of an executive magistrate after due legal procedure.

Police seized suspected heroin weighing about 5.48 grams from a pouch, a vehicle (AR-01N-5177), and the accused’s residence. Additionally, 6.44 grams of suspected ganja, ₹90,000 in cash believed to be sale proceeds, and two mobile phones — a Samsung keypad handset and a Redmi Note 11S — were recovered. The search and seizure process was videographed, and the investigation is being led by Inspector Yomken Riram, Officer-in-Charge of Aalo Police Station.

Officials stated that investigations in both cases are ongoing to identify possible links to a wider drug network. West Siang District Police have urged citizens to report any suspicious activities as part of the continuing drive against narcotics in the region.

19-Year-Old Student from Tripura Hospitalised After Alleged Assault by Live-In Partner in Gurugram

 

Gurugram, February 19, 2026:

A 19-year-old student from Tripura was allegedly subjected to a brutal assault by her live-in partner at a flat in Gurugram’s Badshahpur area. The accused, identified as Shivam from Delhi’s Narela, has been booked under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita after an FIR was registered on February 19.

According to police, the woman is currently undergoing treatment at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi and was initially declared unfit to give a statement due to the severity of her injuries.

In her statement, the survivor alleged that the accused beat her with a steel bottle, smashed her head against a wall, and struck her with an earthen pot. He also allegedly poured sanitiser on her private parts and attempted to set them on fire, attacked her legs with a knife, and threatened to leave her unable to walk or become a mother. She further claimed that he recorded explicit videos of her during the assault.

The incident reportedly took place on February 16. Two days later, on February 18, the woman managed to call her mother using the accused’s phone and informed her about the assault in a local language. Her mother then alerted the police, after which the woman was rescued and taken to hospital. Investigations are ongoing.

First Assam–Arunachal Border Pillar Installed at Seijosa, Marking Major Step in Boundary Resolution

 Pakke kessang, February 21, 2026:

In a significant development for Assam–Arunachal relations, the first official border pillar between Arunachal Pradesh and Assam has been successfully constructed at Seijosa, signaling progress toward resolving the long-standing inter-state boundary dispute.

The milestone follows the spirit of the Namsai Declaration and is being viewed as a concrete step toward ensuring administrative clarity and lasting peace along the shared boundary. The construction process was jointly supervised by senior officials from both states to maintain accuracy and mutual agreement.

Among those present were the Deputy Commissioners of Pakke Kessang and Biswanath, ZPC Pakke Kessang Shri Pani Tayam, SSP Biswanath, Divisional Forest Officers from both states, the Nodal Officer (Survey) from Assam, administrative officials, community leaders, and Gao Burahs.

Officials, villagers and Gaon Burahs from both states.

Minister Biyuram Wahge, while sharing the update, expressed gratitude to Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for their leadership in advancing the boundary resolution process. He also acknowledged the contributions of Home Minister and former Regional Committee Chairman Shri Mama Natung and Assam Regional Committee Chairman (Biswanath) Shri Pijush Hazarika.

Officials stated that the installation of the first border pillar represents an important foundation for future demarcation work and continued cooperation between the two neighbouring states.

Tiger Sighting Sparks Fear in Habia Village; Locals Urge Immediate Forest Department Action

 

Sangdupota, February 21, 2026:

Concern has gripped residents of Habia village under the Sangdupota Circle after reports of a tiger roaming openly in the area, raising serious safety concerns among villagers of Habia Panchayat.

Speaking to the media, GPM Nabam Tajang stated that villagers have been reporting the suspected presence of tigers for several days, with multiple mithuns allegedly killed in recent incidents. The situation has created fear among locals who depend heavily on nearby forests for collecting vegetables, firewood, and other daily necessities.

Tajang emphasized that the continued movement of the tiger near human settlements poses a significant risk, particularly to those who frequently venture into forested areas. He has appealed to the Forest Department to take precautionary measures at the earliest to prevent any untoward incident and to ensure the safety of both villagers and wildlife.

Authorities are yet to issue an official statement regarding the reported sightings, while residents remain on alert amid growing concerns over human-wildlife conflict in the region.

ASI Martin Lego Dies in Wild Elephant Attack at Sunpura in Lohit District

 

Sunpura, February 21, 2026:

ASI Martin Lego, a dedicated police officer from Jeko village posted at Sunpura Police Station, tragically lost his life following a wild elephant attack at Sunpura in Lohit district on the morning of February 21, 2026.

Known for his sincerity, discipline, and unwavering commitment to duty, ASI Lego served the force with honour and dedication. His sudden demise has left the police fraternity and the local community in deep shock and grief.

Tezu MLA Mohesh Chai also shared a condolence message on social media, expressing deep sorrow over the incident. In his message, he said he was “very sad to learn the unfortunate demise of ASI Martin Lego (APP) of Jeko village today morning,” and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family while praying for eternal peace for the departed soul.

The tragic incident highlights the risks faced by frontline personnel even beyond conventional threats. His service and sacrifice will be remembered with pride and respect.

Prayers are offered for eternal peace to the departed soul, and strength and solace to his bereaved family during this difficult time.

First English–Apatani Bird Pocket Guide of Ziro Valley Unveiled on 40th Statehood Day

 

Ziro, February 21, 2026
Marking the 40th Statehood Day celebrations, the Hapoli Forest Division, in collaboration with the Birding Club, Ziro, released the region’s first bilingual English–Apatani pocket guide documenting 119 bird species found in Ziro Valley.

The guide was unveiled by MLA Hage Apa, representing the 17th Ziro-Hapoli Assembly Constituency, during the Statehood Day celebrations held at the District Secretariat. The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme, Superintendent of Police Keni Bagra, ZPC Hibu Dumi, former minister Tage Taki, Divisional Forest Officer Tilling Taker, heads of departments, ZPMs, and members of the public.

Published by the Hapoli Forest Division under the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh Birding Club, Ngunu Ziro, and Ziro Bird Walk, the pocket guide represents the second major effort to document the valley’s avifauna. It follows the 2022 coffee table book Birds of Ziro, which first showcased the rich bird diversity of the valley.

The pocket guide aims to promote wildlife conservation awareness while supporting the preservation of the Apatani language. Officials stated that the publication is designed as a compact and accessible resource for bird enthusiasts, students, and local communities, encouraging responsible nature appreciation through education and community participation.

Three Arunachal Women Allege Racial Abuse; FIR Filed in Delhi

 

New Delhi, February 21, 2026:

An alleged case of racial harassment involving three women from Arunachal Pradesh has been reported in Malviya Nagar after a minor dispute inside a residential building escalated into a confrontation.

The incident reportedly took place on the evening of February 19, when drilling work was underway in a fourth-floor apartment during an air-conditioner repair. Residents living on the first floor objected after dust and debris allegedly fell into their area, leading to an argument between both sides.

According to the complainants, the disagreement intensified and the accused allegedly made offensive and racially insensitive remarks directed at them and people from the Northeastern region. The women claimed that stereotypes and inappropriate comments about their profession and personal lives were used during the exchange.

Police were called to the scene, and sources said an FIR has been registered at Malviya Nagar Police Station. The case is now under formal investigation, while the Special Police Unit for North-Eastern Region (SPUNER) is said to be monitoring developments. Authorities indicated that appropriate action will be taken and efforts are being made to ensure justice.

The women also stated that a building broker later informed them that they would need to vacate the flat within two months due to proposed construction work. However, they alleged that other residents were unaware of any such plans, raising further concerns about the situation.

The complainants have demanded a public apology from the accused, saying the remarks were not only directed at them but were offensive to the wider Northeastern community. The incident has renewed discussion about the challenges and discrimination faced by people from the region in major metropolitan areas.

EKSWCO Urges Nyishi Elite Society to Intervene in ANSU Leadership Dispute

Itanagar, February 20, 2026:

The East Kameng Social Welfare & Cultural Organization (EKSWCO) has appealed to the Nyishi Elite Society (NES) to immediately intervene and facilitate an amicable resolution to the ongoing leadership issue within the All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU).

In a formal letter addressed to the President of NES, EKSWCO expressed deep concern over the growing tension and misunderstanding among supporters of both sides involved in the dispute. The organization warned that if the matter is not resolved at the earliest, it could escalate into law and order problems and disturb communal harmony.

EKSWCO stated that the situation carries the potential to undermine the dignity and institutional sanctity of ANSU and may adversely affect the image of the Nyishi community. Highlighting ANSU’s legacy as a symbol of unity, discipline, and democratic values, the organization emphasized the need for peaceful and constitutional dialogue.

Although the individuals concerned belong to East Kameng district, EKSWCO noted that the issue falls beyond its organizational scope as ANSU represents the Nyishi society across Arunachal Pradesh and beyond. The organization therefore urged NES, as the apex and parental body, to initiate dialogue among the concerned parties and resolve the matter at the earliest.

EKSWCO Chairperson Raya Flago Taniang expressed confidence in the wisdom and leadership of NES, stating that timely intervention would safeguard unity and uphold democratic principles within the community.

The appeal was submitted seeking immediate action from the Nyishi Elite Society.

Governor KT Parnaik Presents State Gold & Silver Medals, CM’s Excellence Awards at Lok Bhavan Ceremony in Itanagar

 

Itanagar, February 20, 2026

 The Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik, conferred the State Gold and Silver Medals on distinguished individuals and organisations in recognition of their outstanding service, exceptional courage and exemplary contributions to the state.

The awards were presented during a ceremony held at the Durbar Hall of Lok Bhavan on Friday. The event also included the presentation of the Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration.

The State Gold Medal was conferred on two individuals and two organisations for their remarkable achievements. The recipients included Havildar & Honorary Naib Subedar Lekhi Passang (Retd) of the 2nd Battalion, Arunachal Scouts; whistle-blower Late Gyamar Padang associated with the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission; and the Women Police Station Pasighat.

The Governor lauded the awardees for their dedication, integrity and selfless service, stating that their contributions have brought pride and inspiration to the people of Arunachal Pradesh.

In recognition of their dedicated service and significant contributions towards the welfare and progress of the State, Kurung Kumey DC Vishakha Yadav, Assistant Commissioner Siang district, Philip Jerang, , Circle Officer Zemithang, Tawang District, Deewan Mara, CO Siang district Niyang Pertin, Junior Specialist Doctor, District Hospital, Longding District, Dr. Peter Tayeng, Sub-Inspector, PHQ, Ganesh Das, Mithun Farmer Federation Siang, Jomlo Monku NGO social worker Social worker, Kameng,, Rinzin Pema, Sub-Divisional Officer, East Siang, Sanjay Taram, Sange Thinley, (Superintendent of Police, Namsai District), Kengo Dirchi, (Deputy Superintendent of Police, Police Station), ICR, Itanagar, Radhe Obing, (Deputy Superintendent of Police, Papum Pare District, Yupia) Biri Karba, (Range Forest Officer, Namdapha Wildlife Range, Changlang District) and Chukhu Tatek, (Assistant Sub-Inspector (SG), 4th IRBN, PTC, Banderdewa, Papum Pare District),were conferred with State Silver Medals, whereas two organization, Deepsikha Trust, NGO, Navi Mumbai and Mountain Dwellers, SHG, Lileng Village, Boleng, Siang District also received the State Silver medal.

The Governor conferred the Chief Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration for the year 2025 to Urban Development Department, West Siang District for Aalo Town Beautification, Nirmal Aalo Movement and Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) 2.0 Achievements in the District, Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission for revamping the Commission, District Urban Development Agency, Namsai for Septage Management with Treatment Plant within the cluster towns of Namsai, Chowkham, Tezu and Roing, the office of the Deputy Commissioner, Longding, Longding District for Multi Purpose Sports Hub and Recreational Park, Kanubari and District Administration, Women & Child. Development, West Kamang, Bomdila for Tech-Vadi Technically Anganwadi Centre for Childhood Education. The Award, which includes a cash prize of Rs.10 Lakhs and an honorary Scroll, recognize outstanding contributions to public service and administrative innovation.

Havildar & Honorary Naib Subedar Lekhi Passang (Retd) of the 2nd Battalion.

Women Police Station Pasighat.

Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission

whistle-blower Late Gyamar Padang