Constable Arrested for Gifting 9mm Bullet in Itanagar

 

Itanagar, April 17:

Itanagar Police made a swift breakthrough in a case involving the gifting of a 9mm bullet to anti-drugs activist Gumin Mize, arresting the accused on the same day the FIR was registered.

The incident came to light after a video related to the act went viral, drawing public attention and prompting immediate police action. Acting without delay, a team led by SDPO Itanagar Chera Saban, along with Officer-in-Charge of Chimpu Police Station Inspector N. Nishant and Sub-Inspector Sanjeet Jha, launched a coordinated operation to trace the individual involved.

Leveraging technical surveillance and rapid field coordination, the police team successfully tracked down and apprehended the accused within four hours of the case being registered.

The operation was conducted under the overall supervision of Superintendent of Police, Itanagar Capital Region, Jummar Basar.

The accused has been identified as Ngelong Ngemu, a constable of the Arunachal Pradesh Armed Police Battalion (AAPBN).

A case has been registered against him under Section 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), read with Section 25(1)(a) of the Arms Act. He is currently in police custody, and further investigation is underway.

Khandu Blames Opposition, Mein Terms Women’s Bill Failure ‘Disappointing’

 

Itanagar, April 28:

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein expressed strong reactions after the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, seeking to implement 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies failed to pass in Parliament.

The bill secured 298 votes in the Lok Sabha, falling short of the 352 votes required for a constitutional amendment, leading to its rejection.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu directly blamed opposition parties for the outcome, stating that their obstruction of the amendment undermines the aspirations of crores of Indian women. He asserted that denying women adequate representation in legislative bodies goes against the spirit of inclusive development and warned that the response from India’s “Nari Shakti” would be “loud, decisive and unforgiving.”

In contrast, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein stopped short of naming any political party but termed the development a “deeply disappointing moment for democracy.” He described the bill’s failure as not just a legislative setback, but a blow to the hopes of millions of women seeking greater empowerment and participation in governance.

Mein emphasised that at a time when the nation highlights women as a driving force of progress, such outcomes create barriers to their advancement. He noted that the development has triggered concern and emotional response among women across the country, as delays in implementing reservation directly affect their participation in decision-making spaces.

Calling for a constructive way forward, Mein urged all stakeholders to rise above political differences and ensure that women’s dignity, rights, and aspirations are protected. He stressed that the democratic process must reinforce, rather than delay, women’s role in shaping the nation’s future.

The bill’s failure comes amid a broader political deadlock over the Centre’s proposal to link women’s reservation with a nationwide delimitation exercise, including plans to expand the Lok Sabha to 850 seats. Opposition parties resisted the move, citing concerns over population-based seat redistribution and its potential regional impact, particularly on southern states.

With the delimitation-linked proposal withdrawn, uncertainty now surrounds the timeline for implementing women’s reservation under the existing Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, keeping the issue at the centre of national political debate.

Likabali Market Hosts Fire Safety Awareness Drive

 

Likabali, April 17:

As part of Fire Service Week (April 14–20, 2026), personnel from the Likabali Fire Station conducted a fire safety awareness programme at Likabali Market, focusing on enhancing public preparedness and response to fire emergencies.

Organised under the theme “Safe School, Safe Hospital & Fire Safety Aware Society,” the initiative brought together shopkeepers, vendors, and local residents for practical training and live demonstrations.

Fire officials demonstrated the correct use of dry chemical powder fire extinguishers, explaining their application in different fire situations. Participants were also given the opportunity to operate extinguishers under supervision, helping them gain hands-on experience and confidence.

A key highlight of the programme was the demonstration on LPG cylinder safety. Officials showcased methods to control and smother cylinder fires and stressed the importance of immediately shutting off gas regulators to prevent further escalation.

The programme witnessed active participation from the local community, with many attendees engaging directly in the training sessions. Officials noted that such awareness initiatives are essential in reducing fire-related risks and ensuring timely response during emergencies.

The drive reflects ongoing efforts by the fire department to build a safety-aware society by equipping citizens with practical knowledge and skills at the grassroots level.

Fake ANSU Leader Arrested for Gun Threat in Naharlagun

 

Itanagar, April 17:

In a swift and coordinated crackdown, Naharlagun Police have arrested a man accused of impersonating a member of the All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU) and threatening a shopkeeper at gunpoint, raising alarm within the local business community.

The incident took place on April 10, 2026, when the accused allegedly entered a mobile shop in Naharlagun and threatened the owner by brandishing a firearm while falsely claiming to be an ANSU executive member. He fled the scene shortly after the incident. The ANSU later issued a clarification stating that the individual had no affiliation with the organization and had misused its name.

Following a formal complaint, police registered a case at Naharlagun Police Station under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Arms Act. The investigation gained momentum after CCTV footage from the shop captured the incident, providing crucial evidence.

A police team led by Sub-Divisional Police Officer Rishi Longdo and Inspector K. Dev, under the supervision of Superintendent of Police Dr. Nyelam Nega, carried out multiple raids across the Capital Complex and the accused’s native village, Jayanti in Seppa. Under sustained pressure from the police, the accused eventually surrendered at Naharlagun Police Station.

The accused has been identified as Baba Tabu (32), a resident of Jayanti village under Seppa in East Kameng district, currently residing in D-Sector, Itanagar.

He was produced before the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Court in Naharlagun and remanded to four days of police custody. Police have also recovered the suspected firearm used in the crime, which will be sent for forensic examination.

Superintendent of Police Dr. Nyelam Nega has urged members of the business community to report such incidents without hesitation and reiterated the police department’s commitment to maintaining public safety and security.

TIPRA Motha Wins Big in TTAADC Polls, Bags 24 of 28 Seats

 

Agartala, April 17: 

The Tipra Motha Party has secured a landslide victory in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections, winning 24 out of 28 seats and establishing a commanding majority in the council.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) managed to secure 4 seats, trailing far behind Tipra Motha’s dominant performance across the tribal regions of the state.

The emphatic mandate reflects strong grassroots support for Tipra Motha and its founder and leader, Pradyot Bikram Manikya DebBarma. A former chairman of the Tripura Pradesh Congress Committee and a member of the erstwhile royal family of Tripura, DebBarma founded the Tipra Motha Party with a focus on safeguarding the rights, identity, and socio-political aspirations of the indigenous tribal communities.

The party has consistently advocated for “Greater Tipraland,” a proposed constitutional solution aimed at ensuring greater autonomy, development, and protection of tribal interests within Tripura. Its growing popularity is largely driven by its strong regional identity politics and emphasis on inclusive development in tribal areas.

Reacting to the victory, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma extended his congratulations, highlighting the broader regional significance of the outcome. In a message, he stated:

“Congratulations my dear friend, Pradyot Bikram Manikya DebBarma and to his party, the TIPRA Motha Party for the landslide victory in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections. Our collective mission for OneNorthEast is strengthened by the victory. Great things to follow!”

Sangma’s remarks underscore the growing political cooperation and shared vision among regional leaders in the Northeast, particularly under the vision of “One North East,” aimed at fostering unity, development, and stronger regional representation.

Political observers believe that the decisive mandate will further empower Tipra Motha to push its agenda on indigenous rights, governance reforms, and development initiatives within the TTAADC framework.

With this sweeping victory, Tipra Motha not only consolidates its dominance in the council but also strengthens its position as a key regional political force in Northeast India.

Takam Sanjoy to Lead ADDC, Seeks More Seats for Arunachal Pradesh

 

Itanagar, April 16:

In a significant political development, former Member of Parliament and former APCC President Takam Sanjoy has been appointed Convenor of the newly formed Arunachal Delimitation Demand Committee (ADDC), a pressure group seeking enhanced representation for Arunachal Pradesh in Parliament and the State Legislative Assembly.

The ADDC was constituted during a meeting held on April 10, where members resolved to initiate a sustained democratic campaign, alleging “historic injustice and systematic underrepresentation” of the state at the national level.

The Committee has put forward key demands, including an increase in Lok Sabha seats from 2 to 5, Rajya Sabha seats from 1 to 2, and expansion of Assembly seats from 60 to 90.

Strategic Importance Highlighted

Emphasizing the state’s geopolitical sensitivity, the ADDC stated that representation should not be determined solely by population metrics. It underlined that Arunachal Pradesh, due to its border location and challenging terrain, plays a vital role in India’s national security framework.

The Committee has urged the Government of India, the Election Commission, and the Delimitation Commission to initiate a special delimitation exercise tailored to the state’s unique conditions, including geography, security concerns, and administrative challenges.

Proposal for Inclusive Representation

In a symbolic proposal, the ADDC suggested naming five proposed Lok Sabha constituencies after major rivers, Kameng, Subansiri, Siang, Lohit, and Tirap, to reflect regional identity and inclusivity.

Support for Women’s Reservation

The Committee also welcomed the proposed 33% reservation for women in legislatures, stating that effective implementation in Arunachal Pradesh would require an increase in the total number of seats to ensure meaningful participation of women, particularly from tribal communities.

Call for Wider Mobilisation

As Convenor, Takam Sanjoy will lead outreach efforts involving political parties, civil society groups, student bodies, and community leaders. The ADDC indicated that the movement would expand into a broader democratic campaign if its demands are not addressed.

An expanded meeting is expected to be held soon in Itanagar to induct executive members and finalize a roadmap for future action.

Seppa Secretariat Inaugurates Crèche and AI VC Hall

 

Inauguration of crèche facility at
Seppa Secretariat for staff children

Seppa, April 16:

In a notable push towards inclusive governance and digital transformation, the District Secretariat in Seppa on Thursday witnessed the inauguration of two key facilities, a dedicated crèche for staff children and a state-of-the-art Video Conference Hall.

Both facilities were inaugurated by Ealing Tallang, MLA of 10-Seppa East Assembly Constituency, in the presence of Yashaswini B, Deputy Commissioner of East Kameng; Shivendu Bhushan, Superintendent of Police, East Kameng; and Manjunath R, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Seppa (HQ), along with senior officials and staff of the district administration.

A Step Towards Women-Friendly Workspaces

The newly established crèche facility, conceptualized by Deputy Commissioner Yashaswini B and funded through the DC Untied Fund, addresses a long-standing challenge faced by working mothers in the district administration.

The initiative was born out of a practical observation, many women employees, especially mothers of infants, were often compelled to bring their children to the workplace, balancing professional duties with childcare responsibilities under strain.

The crèche now provides a safe, secure, and child-friendly environment within the office premises, enabling employees to work with greater focus, dignity, and peace of mind. The initiative reflects a strong commitment to employee welfare and gender-responsive governance.

Speaking on the occasion, MLA Ealing Tallang described the facility as a progressive and people-centric intervention that strengthens women’s empowerment and promotes a healthier work culture.

Inauguration of AI-enabled Video
Conference Hall at Seppa Secretariat

Boost to Digital Governance

Alongside, a fully digitalised and AI-enabled Video Conference Hall was also inaugurated, marking a major leap in the district’s administrative infrastructure.

Developed under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner Yashaswini B and funded through the DC Untied Fund, the facility integrates advanced Artificial Intelligence systems to ensure seamless and high-quality virtual communication.

Equipped with intelligent audio-visual systems, real-time noise cancellation, automated camera tracking, and smart conferencing tools, the hall is designed to facilitate efficient virtual meetings, inter-departmental coordination, and high-level conferences. AI integration further enhances user experience through adaptive controls, optimized connectivity, and improved clarity.

The facility is expected to reduce logistical challenges, minimize travel, and enable faster decision-making through real-time connectivity with state and national platforms. It also strengthens preparedness for digital governance initiatives and emergency coordination.

Vision for a Model District

MLA Ealing Tallang lauded the district administration for embracing innovation and emphasized the growing importance of technology in strengthening grassroots governance.

Deputy Commissioner Yashaswini B stated that both initiatives align with the broader vision of building a smart, responsive, and future-ready administration. She reiterated the commitment to leveraging modern solutions to improve efficiency, transparency, and accessibility.

Under her leadership, East Kameng district continues to implement people-oriented and technology-driven initiatives aimed at setting benchmarks across Arunachal Pradesh.

The dual inauguration not only enhances workplace welfare and morale but also signals a forward-looking approach to governance, where human-centric policies and digital innovation go hand in hand.

Sangam Kayang Makes History with I-League 3 Appointment

 

Itanagar, April 16:

In a significant milestone for football in Arunachal Pradesh, Sangam Kayang has been appointed as a Match Official for the I-League 3 matches to be held in Imphal. With this achievement, Kayang becomes the first referee from the state to officiate at this level of national competition.

The appointment marks a proud moment not only for the individual but also for the sporting community of Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting the growing presence of talent from the region in Indian football.

Kipa Ajay, Treasurer of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), extended his congratulations, acknowledging Kayang’s dedication and perseverance. He noted that this accomplishment is a testament to Kayang’s hard work and passion for the sport, and expressed confidence that his journey will inspire many aspiring referees from the state.

Kayang’s selection is being seen as a step forward for football development in the Northeast, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh, where increasing participation and recognition are gradually opening new opportunities at the national level.

Officials and well-wishers have conveyed their best wishes for his continued success, expressing hope that this achievement will pave the way for more such milestones in the future.

Chimpu Rent Row Sparks Debate Over Arbitrary Pricing

 

Itanagar, April 16:

A recent rental advertisement for a newly constructed two-bedroom apartment (2BHK) in Chimpu has sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many residents questioning the rising cost of housing in the state capital.

The listing, which quoted a monthly rent of ₹16,000 along with a security deposit of ₹48,000, drew sharp reactions from users who described the pricing as excessive for the locality. The backlash has since evolved into a broader debate on the absence of standardized rental practices in Itanagar.

Several residents allege that rents are often determined solely at the discretion of landlords, without any clear benchmarks based on location, property condition, or prevailing market standards. This has resulted in noticeable inconsistencies, where similar properties are priced differently, leading to concerns over fairness and transparency in the rental market.

Many residents say that such inconsistencies are evident across nearby localities as well. In social media discussions, one user claimed to be paying ₹10,500 per month for a standard 2BHK in the Naharlagun G Extension market area, while another stated that their family pays ₹10,000 monthly for a similar 2BHK near Bank Tinali in Itanagar. These comparisons have further fueled concerns that rental pricing in certain areas is disproportionately high and not reflective of a uniform market structure.

The issue had previously drawn the attention of a prominent student organization. In 2024, the All Nyishi Students' Union (ANSU) submitted a memorandum to the state government, calling for the strict implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Tenancy Act, 2022. The memorandum, addressed to the Chief Secretary, emphasized the need for effective enforcement of the Act to regulate rental housing and safeguard the interests of both landlords and tenants.

Despite the existence of the legislation, concerns persist over its limited implementation on the ground, with many residents arguing that stronger oversight is necessary to curb arbitrary pricing practices.

The recent Chimpu listing has thus reignited calls for clearer regulatory mechanisms and stricter enforcement of tenancy laws to ensure a more transparent and equitable housing market in Itanagar.

Sarli PHC Faces Doctor Shortage, Health Minister Reviews Services

 

Sarli, April 15:

During his visit to Sarli on the occasion of the Longte festival, Health Minister Biyuram Wahge conducted an on-ground assessment of healthcare services at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in the remote border region of Kurung Kumey district. The visit highlighted critical gaps in medical infrastructure and manpower in one of the state’s most underserved areas.

The Sarli PHC, which caters to nearly 45 villages across Sarli and Polosang circles, is currently operating without a regular allopathic doctor. The facility is being managed solely by a single AYUSH Medical Officer, raising concerns about the availability of comprehensive healthcare services for the local population.

During the inspection, the minister interacted with healthcare staff to understand operational challenges and immediate requirements. He reviewed the existing infrastructure, availability of medicines, and the overall functioning of the centre, particularly in light of its strategic importance in a remote and border area.

Acknowledging the constraints faced by the medical team, Wahge assured that the government would take necessary steps to strengthen healthcare delivery in the region. He emphasized the need for improved staffing, better facilities, and enhanced support to ensure that residents receive timely and adequate medical care.

The minister also lauded the efforts of Medical Officer (AYUSH) Dr. Tarh Loth and his team for their commitment and dedication. Despite limited resources and manpower, the team has been consistently providing essential healthcare services to the local communities.

The visit comes at a time when Longte Yullo, an important spring festival of the Nyishi tribe marking the beginning of the agricultural season, is being celebrated across the region. The minister’s outreach during the festival underscores the government’s focus on addressing grassroots issues while engaging with local communities.

Officials stated that follow-up measures are expected to be initiated soon to address the shortages and improve healthcare accessibility in Sarli and surrounding areas

Biyuram Wahge Attends Longte Yullo Festival in Sarli

 

Sarli, April 15:

Health Minister Biyuram Wahge visited Sarli, one of the most remote regions of Arunachal Pradesh bordering China, to attend the closing ceremony of the Joint Longte Festival Sarli–Polosang.

The minister received a warm welcome from local leaders and a large gathering of residents, reflecting the strong community participation in the annual celebration. The festival showcased the vibrant traditions and cultural richness of the indigenous communities of the region.

Longte Yullo is a significant and ancient spring festival celebrated by the Nyishi tribe, particularly in the Kurung Kumey district. Observed annually in April, the festival marks the beginning of the agricultural season. It holds deep cultural and spiritual importance, as communities offer prayers and seek divine blessings for a prosperous harvest, peace, and the overall well-being of society.

Cultural troops showcasing traditional dance.

Sharing his experience on social media, Wahge expressed his admiration for the people of Sarli, noting that their dedication to preserving traditions in such a remote location was inspiring. He remarked that witnessing the cultural strength of the community reminded him of the deep-rooted heritage of the Nyishi people.

Emphasizing the importance of cultural continuity, the minister stated that if communities living in far-flung areas can remain connected to their traditions, others must also make conscious efforts to preserve their identity, regardless of changing lifestyles or beliefs.

He also extended his sincere gratitude to the Longte Committee for organizing the event and for their warm hospitality, highlighting the significance of such festivals in strengthening cultural unity and community spirit across the state.