Bandh Call in Itanagar by Anti-Corruption Movement

 

Itanagar, March 4, 2026:

A 12-hour peaceful bandh has been called in Itanagar on March 5 by the Jan Andolan Anti-Corruption Movement, demanding accountability and transparency in alleged corruption cases.

The shutdown will be observed from 5 AM to 5 PM. The organization stated that the protest is aimed at pressing authorities to take concrete action over the allegations and ensure transparency in the matter.

The movement is being led by Shri Nabam Tagam. According to the organization, despite several representations submitted earlier and a deadline set for March 3, no action has been initiated against Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu. The group has therefore demanded an independent investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to ensure what it described as a fair and impartial probe.

Leaders of the movement have emphasized that the bandh will be conducted peacefully and democratically. They have appealed to citizens, business establishments, and civil society organizations to support the protest and join what they described as a fight against corruption.

The bandh call has sparked political discussions across Arunachal Pradesh, with attention now focused on how the situation unfolds on March 5.

Sol Dodum Seeks Termination of former DLRSO in Highway Scam Case

 

Itanagar, March 4, 2026:

Social activist Sol Dodum on Wednesday urged Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu to terminate Takam Kechak, the former District Land Revenue and Settlement Officer (DLRSO) of East Kameng district, who was arrested in connection with the alleged Lada–Sarli Frontier Highway land compensation scam.

Addressing media persons at the Arunachal Press Club (APC), Dodum said that although Kechak was arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), the state government has not yet issued any order terminating him from service. He criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party–led government under Chief Minister Khandu, alleging that there has been a lack of decisive action in the matter.

Dodum also raised questions over the absence of action against former East Kameng Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Gupta, stating that despite a re-verification report being submitted to the state government, no concrete steps have been taken so far.

He said the government’s silence on the matter has triggered public concern over the possible involvement of authorities in the alleged misuse of funds meant for the highway project. Dodum maintained that if the government had no connection to the alleged irregularities, stronger action would likely have been taken by now.

Referring to the arrest of Kechak on December 17 last year, Dodum said the ACB had at the time assured that strict action would be taken against everyone involved in the scam. However, he claimed that the progress of the investigation has not been clearly visible to the public since then.

Calling on the chief minister to uphold the government’s policy of “zero tolerance against corruption,” Dodum said people are closely monitoring how the case unfolds and how long it will take for those allegedly involved to face legal consequences.

He further alleged that although the ACB has examined the bank accounts of several suspected individuals, the funds believed to have been misappropriated in the case are yet to be recovered.

Meanwhile, several officials had earlier been suspended in connection with the case, including Divisional Forest Officer Abhinav Kumar, District Agriculture Officer M Perme, and District Horticulture Officer CK Tayum, along with the DLRSO.

The ACB had also arrested three private individuals Rajo Gyadi, Khya Byagang, and Yayo Yangfo, for their alleged involvement in the execution of the alleged scam.

Bear Cub Found in Tree, Safely Returned During Highway Survey in Kra Daadi

Kra Daadi, March 2, 2026:

Arunachal Pradesh: A bear cub was discovered inside a hollow tree during a highway construction survey in a forested area of Kra Daadi district on Monday, prompting workers to immediately halt clearance activities at the site.

According to a video recorded at the location and later circulated on social media, the tree had been identified for removal as part of the proposed highway alignment passing through the jungle area. Workers were preparing to cut and burn the wood when they noticed movement inside the hollow trunk. On closer inspection, they found a very young bear cub sheltering within the cavity of the tree.

The footage shows workers carefully extracting the cub from the hollow to ensure it was not injured. After confirming that the animal was safe, they decided not to proceed with burning the tree. The cub was subsequently placed back inside the hollow trunk so that its mother could locate and retrieve it upon her return. The tree was left standing and undisturbed to avoid separating the cub from its natural habitat.

The incident has drawn attention to the ecological sensitivity of forest areas in Arunachal Pradesh, which are home to diverse wildlife species. Environmental concerns are often raised during infrastructure expansion projects in such regions, underscoring the importance of thorough ground surveys and precautionary measures before undertaking tree felling and land clearance.

No official statement had been issued at the time of filing this report.

ULFA(I) Cadre Bitul Baruha Surrenders in Khonsa; Pistol and Ammunition Recovered

 

Khonsa, March 3, 2026:

A cadre of the United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) (ULFA-I) surrendered before security forces in Khonsa on Tuesday following a specific intelligence-based operation in the region.

According to an official press release, security agencies received credible information regarding the presence of a ULFA(I) cadre in the general area of Horu Chinghan under Tirap district. Acting swiftly on the input, a team from the Khonsa Battalion launched a focused operation from Company Operating Base (COB) Noglo to track down the suspected militant.

Upon reaching the location, security personnel established contact with the individual and initiated efforts to persuade him to surrender peacefully. After negotiations, the cadre agreed to lay down his arms and was subsequently taken into custody at COB Noglo without any exchange of fire.

The surrendered individual has been identified as self-styled 2nd Lieutenant Bitul Baruha (31), reportedly associated with the ULFA(I) faction. During the surrender, security forces recovered one 0.40 calibre pistol along with a magazine and two live rounds of ammunition.

Officials stated that the surrender reflects the sustained efforts of security forces to encourage militants to shun violence and return to the mainstream. They reiterated that intelligence-based operations will continue in the region to curb insurgent activities and ensure peace and stability.

ULFA(I), a banned insurgent outfit active in parts of Assam and adjoining areas, has been under increased surveillance amid intensified counter-insurgency operations. Security agencies have been consistently urging members of proscribed organisations to avail government rehabilitation schemes and adopt a peaceful path.

Further investigation and necessary legal formalities in connection with the surrender are currently underway.

Ex-MLA Tani Loffa Urges CM to Ban AAPSU Elections Over Rising Violence

 

Itanagar, March 21, 2026: 

Former MLA and former student leader Tani Loffa has written to the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh seeking an immediate ban on the ongoing AAPSU election process, citing escalating violence.

For the past few months, the AAPSU election has witnessed numerous violence-related incidents. In January, stone pelting and alleged gunfire were reported inside the AAPSU office premises. A week ago, similar clashes occurred outside the AAPSU office, leaving several people injured. On Sunday night, two groups reportedly clashed within the DC office premises, resulting in multiple injuries and damage to property.

Amid such a concerning situation surrounding the ongoing AAPSU election, former leaders like Tani Loffa have stepped forward to raise their voice.

In his letter, Loffa described the situation as unprecedented and expressed concern over what he termed “ugly and uncalled violence.” He urged the state government to impose a total ban on AAPSU until normalcy is restored and further requested that no caretaker body be appointed during this period.

He appealed to the government to take necessary action in the interest of the state and the student community.

Dasanglu Pul Launches Child Rights Awareness Pamphlets

 

Itanagar, March 2, 2026:

Minister for Women & Child Development Dasanglu Pul, on Monday launched a series of Child Rights Awareness Pamphlets at the State Civil Secretariat, aimed at strengthening awareness and protection mechanisms for children across Arunachal Pradesh.

The launch programme was attended by Smti. Ratan Anya, Chairperson of the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR), along with esteemed members of the Commission and the Member Secretary.

The pamphlets, prepared by APSCPCR, are designed to educate children, parents, teachers, and the general public about key child protection laws and safeguards. The publications highlight important provisions of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009; the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012; the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 (Amended 2016); and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, among other relevant laws.

Dasanglu Pul and APSCPCR Chairperson
Anya Ratan at the pamphlet launch in Itanagar.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister emphasized that grassroots awareness is essential to ensuring a safe, secure, and child-friendly environment. The initiative reflects the government’s continued commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and overall well-being of every child in the state.

Officials stated that the awareness drive will play a crucial role in empowering communities with knowledge about legal protections and available mechanisms to address violations of child rights.

The initiative reinforces the message that every child deserves education, safety, dignity, and protection, and calls for collective efforts to uphold and protect these fundamental rights.

Ramku Kebang Declares Non-Consent to Siang Dam PFR and Survey Activities

 

Upper Siang, March 1, 2026:

In a significant development from the Siang region, residents of Ramku village under Geku Circle have unanimously declared collective non-consent to all Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) activities linked to the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. The decision was taken during a two-day traditional council (Kebang) held recently.

The historic Kebang witnessed participation from nearly all sections of the village community. Village council elders, customary leaders, farmers, women, and youth gathered in large numbers, with representatives from around 35 households engaging in detailed deliberations on the proposed mega dam and ongoing survey-related activities.

Two Days of Deliberation

According to community representatives, discussions focused on environmental, social, cultural, and land rights concerns arising from survey operations, data collection exercises, geological investigations, and Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) processes associated with the project.

Following extensive consultations, the traditional council unanimously resolved to reject:

Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) surveys

Geological drilling or related investigations

Data collection or mapping exercises

Any form of project-related entry into customary village lands

Community members alleged that such activities were being pursued without formal approval or consultation with the recognised Village Council and customary authorities.

Community Declaration of Non-Consent

In a formal declaration, residents described themselves as traditional custodians and rights holders of ancestral lands, forests, and river systems. The declaration asserted that no individual or group acting without Village Council authorisation can represent the collective will of the community.

Invoking constitutional democratic rights, villagers affirmed their decision to peacefully oppose any activity connected to the project within their customary jurisdiction.

Assertion of Customary Governance

Elders emphasised that decisions concerning land and natural resources must originate through collective consultation under established customary governance systems practiced across the region. The declaration further underscored that the position reflects a united stand of elders, women, farmers, landholders, and youth.

Growing Regional Significance

Observers note that the resolution from Ramku may carry wider implications across Upper Siang, where traditional institutions continue to play a central role in land governance throughout Arunachal Pradesh, particularly in remote indigenous regions.

Amid intensifying debates over large-scale infrastructure development, the development highlights growing grassroots mobilisation and assertion of customary rights in northeastern India.

CM Meets Spotify, AXEAN Delegates to Boost Arunachal Music

 

Itanagar, March 2, 2026:

In a significant step towards expanding Arunachal Pradesh’s creative footprint, Chief Minister Pema Khandu met Dhruvank Vaidya, Head of Music and Podcast at Spotify India, and Piyapong Muenprasertdee, co-founder of AXEAN Festival, along with singer-songwriter Taba Chake. The meeting followed the “Just Music” event held on 28 February.

Conceived by Taba Chake and organised by the Redcoats Society at the Donyi Polo International Hotel, the initiative aimed to foster collaboration, mentorship, and professional pathways for emerging musicians and creative entrepreneurs from the Northeast.

The programme brought together artists and industry professionals for focused discussions. Indie musician Justh and Taba Chake shared perspectives on songwriting and independent artistry. Yama of Level House spoke on artist management and touring strategies, while guitar luthier Bhrigu Arora of The Tone Door discussed instrument craftsmanship and sound.

Industry insights were strengthened by Dhruvank Vaidya’s interaction on streaming and publishing opportunities for independent artists from emerging markets. Piyapong Muenprasertdee highlighted avenues for regional collaboration and festival circuits across Asia.

CM Pema Khandu interacts with Dhruvank Vaidya
and Taba Chake in Itanagar on March 2.

The event also featured expert discussions on streaming platforms, record labels, and networking, alongside live showcases designed to connect local talent with key industry stakeholders.

The interaction with the Chief Minister underscored the state government’s intent to build meaningful partnerships that can amplify Arunachal’s artistic voices and position the state as a growing hub for original music and creative collaboration across Asian and global platforms.

PM Poshan Workers Hold Statewide Protest in Itanagar

 

Itanagar, March 2, 2026:

Members of the All Arunachal Pradesh PM Poshan Workers’ Union (AAPPMPWU) on Monday staged a peaceful mass rally-cum-dharna in Itanagar, demanding immediate redressal of their long-pending grievances, including the release of unpaid honorarium, regularization of service, wage enhancement, and improved working facilities.

The rally commenced from Akashdeep and proceeded towards the Tennis Court, with participants raising slogans and holding placards highlighting their demands. Workers from almost every district of Arunachal Pradesh joined the protest, making it a significant statewide mobilisation. Union leaders described the demonstration as a united effort by PM Poshan workers across the state to draw the attention of the government to their ongoing hardships.

According to the union, many workers have not received their honorarium for nearly two years. The prolonged delay in payment has reportedly placed hundreds of families under financial strain, as the honorarium serves as a primary or supplementary source of income for many households.

The protesting workers are engaged under the PM Poshan Scheme, formerly known as the Mid-Day Meal Scheme. Under the scheme, cook-cum-helpers are entrusted with preparing and serving hot, nutritious meals to students in government and government-aided schools. Their responsibilities also include maintaining hygiene in school kitchens, managing food supplies, and ensuring timely meal distribution. The programme is aimed at improving child nutrition, boosting school attendance, and supporting the overall well-being of students.

PM Poshan workers stage protest in Itanagar over 2-year pending wages.

During the rally, union representatives emphasized that despite playing a vital role in the successful implementation of the school nutrition programme, PM Poshan workers continue to face irregular payments, low honorarium, and inadequate working infrastructure. Among their key demands are the regularization of services, enhancement of wages in line with rising living costs, and provision of improved kitchen facilities and basic amenities.

The union further recalled that this is not the first time they have resorted to public protest. Last year, AAPPMPWU had organized a massive rally in Pasighat, urging the government to address their grievances. Despite that large-scale demonstration, the workers claim that many of their issues remain unresolved, prompting the latest statewide agitation in Itanagar.

Leaders of the union appealed to the state government and concerned authorities to intervene at the earliest and ensure the release of pending dues while initiating measures for long-term reforms in service conditions. They maintained that the protest was conducted peacefully and in a disciplined manner, but warned that further democratic steps may be considered if their demands are not addressed promptly.

“APCC Panel Formed Over Ngorlung–Ralung Hunger Strike”

 

East Siang, March 1, 2026:

The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), under the leadership of its President Shri Bosiram Siram, has constituted an eight-member Fact-Finding Committee to examine concerns surrounding the ongoing indefinite hunger strike by mothers of Ngorlung–Ralung village in East Siang district.

The protestors are demanding the permanent closure or immediate relocation of the hazardous Ferro Silicon factory operated by Aether Alloys LLP at the Industrial Growth Centre, Niglok. According to the women, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh had earlier assured that the factory would be shifted, but the commitment remains unfulfilled.

The committee, led by APCC Vice President Smti. Yane Dai as Chairperson, with Advocate Tami Pangu as Vice-Chairman and Shri Daniel Gao as Member Secretary, visited the hunger strike site on Saturday. Members interacted with the protesting mothers and later conducted an on-site inspection of the Ferro Silicon unit at the Industrial Growth Centre to assess ground conditions.

Key Concerns Raised by the Protestors

Despite declining health due to the indefinite fast, many of the women highlighted serious issues, including:

Continuous emission of toxic smoke and dust affecting respiratory health

Increase in asthma, chronic cough, eye irritation, and skin ailments

Damage to agricultural fields and reduced crop productivity

Contamination of water sources impacting drinking water and livestock

Noise pollution and improper industrial waste disposal

Fear of long-term illnesses, including cancer and other life-threatening diseases

The protestors stated that their peaceful agitation aims to safeguard the health, environment, and future of their children and community.

Environmental and Health Risks

Ferro Silicon manufacturing is considered a high-risk industrial activity. The process involves high-temperature electric arc furnaces that emit silica dust and hazardous fumes. It can release particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon monoxide, sulfur compounds, and other toxic pollutants. Additionally, industrial slag and waste may contaminate soil and groundwater if not properly managed. Significant carbon emissions further contribute to environmental degradation.

When such facilities operate near residential and agricultural areas without stringent pollution-control mechanisms, they pose substantial public health and ecological risks.

APCC members with the mother's of Ngorlung- Ralung village.

APCC’s Position

The APCC expressed solidarity with the mothers of Ngorlung–Ralung village in East Siang, stating that public health and environmental safety must take precedence over industrial interests.

The Fact-Finding Committee will submit a detailed report to APCC President Bosiram Siram after comprehensive study and stakeholder consultations. Based on the findings, the party stated it will take appropriate steps to seek accountability and ensure protection of community health and the environment.

The APCC has urged the State Government to act promptly, honour prior commitments, and address the concerns of the local community without further delay.

Tajang Village Holds Cleanliness Drive Before Hari-Bulla Myoko 2026

Lower Subansiri, March 1, 2026:

On the eve of Hari-Bulla Myoko 2026, the Tajang Lemba Welfare Committee (TLWC), Ziro, in Lower Subansiri district carried out a mass social service drive on Sunday with active participation from members and volunteers.

The initiative was undertaken under the guidance of Shri Millo Tadu, ZPM 05-Tajang and Chief Patron of TLWC, and was led by Chairman Shri Misso Halley and General Secretary Shri Rubu Laji.

During the drive, participants cleaned and cleared all drainage systems and undertook extensive sanitation work across the entire Tajang Lemba jurisdiction. The effort reflected a strong sense of unity, civic responsibility, and commitment to maintaining cleanliness and community wellbeing ahead of the upcoming festival.

Photo: IPR Lower Subansiri 

Hari-Bulla Myoko forms part of the traditional Myoko festival of the Apatani tribe, celebrated annually in Ziro Valley during the month of March. The festival symbolizes friendship, prosperity, fertility, and protection from misfortune. Observed through priest-led rituals, community feasts, and cultural traditions, Myoko follows a rotational system among villages and plays a significant role in strengthening inter-village ties and preserving the rich indigenous heritage of the Apatani community.