Naharlagun Police Arrest Drug Peddler, Seize 38.5g Heroin

 

Naharlagun, April 18:

In a swift anti-drug operation, Naharlagun Police apprehended a suspected drug peddler and seized a significant quantity of suspected heroin from his residence at Panchayat Colony.

Acting on credible intelligence, a police team led by Inspector Krishnendu Dev, Officer-in-Charge of Naharlagun Police Station, conducted a search operation at the accused’s residence. The team included SI S. K. Singh, SI Y. K. Razak, HC K. Samyor, HC Lham Tsering, and Constable K. Tayeng. The operation was carried out in the presence of Executive Magistrate Khoda Bath, ensuring due legal procedure.

The accused has been identified as Tumli Nyodu alias Techi Kaal Nyodu (34), son of Late Tatum Nyodu and a resident of Panchayat Colony, Naharlagun.

Initial searches yielded minimal results. However, upon further examination of the premises, the police recovered 30 plastic vials containing suspected heroin, weighing approximately 38.5 grams. The contraband was found concealed inside a black polythene bag hidden in the bathroom roof. In addition, a cash amount of ₹2,300 and Nitcor-10 tablets were also seized from his possession.

Seized Vials from the accused.

In connection with the case, Naharlagun Police has registered an FIR vide NLG/PS Case No. 45/26 under Sections 21(b) and 29 of the NDPS Act, dated April 18, 2026. The accused has been formally arrested, and further investigation is underway.

Superintendent of Police, Naharlagun, Dr. Nyelam Nega, urged the public, especially parents and youth, to remain vigilant and actively cooperate with law enforcement agencies in combating the growing drug menace in the region.

Khandu Announces Approved Science Centres with Planetariums in Namsai, Dirang

 

Itanagar, April 17:

Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday announced that the state government will establish Science Centres equipped with planetariums in Namsai and Dirang, marking a significant push to strengthen science education in Arunachal Pradesh.

The announcement was made while inaugurating a new Administrative Block, a pre-fabricated Badminton-cum-Judo Hall, and a Recreation Hall at Dera Natung Government College.

Khandu said the initiative, which has already been approved and sanctioned, aims to promote scientific thinking, creativity, and innovation among students and youth across the state. He emphasized that the proposed centres will feature modern facilities, including digital planetariums, advanced sky simulation systems, and interactive exhibits.

“These facilities will make astronomy and space science more engaging, accessible, and experiential for young learners,” he stated, adding that the move is part of the government’s broader effort to enhance educational infrastructure and nurture a culture of scientific inquiry in Arunachal Pradesh.

The Chief Minister also noted that such initiatives would help inspire future generations to pursue careers in science and technology while fostering curiosity-driven learning.

Man Held with Heroin at Likabali Check Gate in Lower Siang

 

Likabali, April 17:

In a late-night anti-drug operation, Lower Siang District Police apprehended one individual in possession of suspected heroin during routine checking at the Likabali check gate.

According to police sources, the interception took place on April 17 at around 10:30 PM. Acting as per standard procedure, the police team conducted an on-the-spot search, during which suspected heroin weighing approximately 3.11 grams (including plastic packaging) was recovered. One unused syringe and one used syringe were also seized from the individual.

The accused has been identified as Domin Loyi, a resident of Pakam village under Aalo Police Station in West Siang district.

Based on an FIR lodged by Inspector Karbom Tao, Officer-in-Charge of Likabali Police Station, a case has been registered under Section 21(a) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, vide Likabali PS Case No. 12/2026.

The accused was formally arrested in the early hours of April 18 at around 1:15 AM, following completion of all required legal formalities, including medical examination.

The operation was conducted under the supervision of DySP Minli Geyi, APPS, along with the Likabali Police team led by OC Inspector Karbom Tao.

Police reiterated their warning against drug abuse and trafficking, stating that strict legal action will continue against those involved in narcotics-related activities.

APU Students Gain Industry Exposure at 3F Oil Palm Roing

 

Pasighat, April 18:

In a bid to enhance practical learning, students of the Department of Commerce at Arunachal Pradesh University (APU) participated in an educational exposure tour to 3F Oil Palm Pvt. Ltd. located in Roing, Lower Dibang Valley district.

The visit, organised for M.Com 2nd Semester students, was coordinated by Dr. Rajen Mihu, Head of the Department of Commerce, along with Assistant Professor Tenzin Chimey. The programme aimed at providing students with firsthand knowledge of agro-industrial operations and business processes beyond classroom learning.

During the visit, students were introduced to various stages of oil palm processing, supply chain mechanisms, and the overall functioning of an agro-based industry. 

Officials and staff of the company briefed the students on operational strategies, quality control measures, and the role of agribusiness in regional economic development.

Itanagar Police Bust Drug Racket, Seize Heroin in Twin Operations

 

Yater Nyona held with 23.34g suspected heroin in A-Sector raid.

Itanagar, April 18:

Itanagar Police continued their sustained crackdown on drug trafficking with two successful intelligence-led operations, resulting in the seizure of suspected heroin and the arrest of one accused, while investigations remain ongoing in both cases.

In the first operation conducted on April 15, 2026, police raided A-Sector, Itanagar, based on credible intelligence and recovered approximately 23.34 grams (gross) of suspected heroin along with syringes from the possession of Smti. Yater Nyona. A case (Itanagar P.S. Case No. 96/26) has been registered under Sections 21(b)/27A/29 of the NDPS Act. Police are also probing her linkages.

In a separate operation on Friday evening, police intercepted an attempt to transport narcotic substances along NH-415. Acting on specific inputs received around 6:30 PM, a naka checkpoint was set up at Chandan Nagar Bridge after obtaining due authorization. At approximately 7:20 PM, a vehicle bearing registration number AS-01-DB-7247 was intercepted.

Dip Das arrested with 11.61g suspected heroin on NH-415.

The vehicle, driven by Dip Das, a native of Cooch Behar, West Bengal, currently residing in Chimpu, was carrying a 19-year-old woman from West Kameng district. Following due legal procedures under the NDPS Act and in the presence of an Executive Magistrate and independent witnesses, a thorough search was conducted. During the operation, eight vials containing suspected heroin, weighing 11.61 grams (gross), were recovered from concealed compartments within the vehicle.

The contraband was seized and sealed as per protocol, and the vehicle used in the alleged transportation was taken into police custody. The accused driver has been arrested, while the female companion was released in compliance with legal provisions restricting the arrest of women during nighttime hours. Police stated that she will be required to cooperate with the investigation.

A case (Itanagar P.S. Case No. 99/2026) has been registered under Sections 21(a)/27A/29 of the NDPS Act, and further investigation is underway.

Both operations were carried out by teams led by Inspector Techi Nega, Officer-in-Charge of Itanagar Police Station, along with SI S. Ngupok and other personnel, in the presence of Executive Magistrates and independent witnesses. The operations were conducted under the overall supervision of Superintendent of Police (Capital), Jummar Basar, IPS.

The SP Capital urged citizens to share credible information with police and reiterated that vigilantism will not be tolerated. He affirmed that strict legal action will be taken against anyone involved in drug trafficking or abuse.

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.