Conversions Threaten Arunachal’s Indigenous Identity: Techi Gubin

 

Padma shri Techi Gubin. Image Source (Panchjanya)

Itanagar, May 29:

Padma Shri awardee, retired Chief Architect, and prominent tribal welfare leader Techi Gubin has expressed serious concern over what he describes as the rapid rise in religious conversions in Arunachal Pradesh, warning that the state's indigenous tribal identity, traditional faith systems, and cultural heritage are facing increasing challenges.

Gubin, who was recently conferred the prestigious Padma Shri by President Droupadi Murmu for his contributions to public service and social work, shared his views during an interaction with Panchjanya contributor Nancy Bajpai.

A respected public servant, cultural conservationist, and social activist, Gubin served the Arunachal Pradesh government for nearly four decades, eventually holding the positions of Chief Architect and Director of Housing. He currently serves as the All-India Vice President of the Akhil Bharatiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram and is a senior advisor to the Indigenous Faith and Culture Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP).

Concern Over Rising Conversions

Speaking on the issue of religious conversion, Gubin claimed that the Christian population in Arunachal Pradesh has increased from approximately 0.79 percent in 1971 to nearly 40 percent in recent years. He cautioned that if the trend continues unchecked, Arunachal Pradesh could eventually become a predominantly Christian state, fundamentally altering the cultural and religious landscape of the region.

According to Gubin, the preservation of indigenous faiths and traditional tribal practices is crucial to safeguarding Arunachal Pradesh's unique identity. He argued that large-scale conversions pose a challenge to the continuity of indigenous belief systems that have been practiced by tribal communities for generations.

Demand for Delisting of Converted ST Members

Gubin also renewed his long-standing demand for the delisting of Scheduled Tribe (ST) members who convert to other religions from the reservation framework.

Referring to a Supreme Court judgment delivered on March 24, 2026, concerning the loss of Scheduled Caste status following conversion to Christianity or Islam, he argued that a similar principle should be considered for Scheduled Tribes. He maintained that individuals who convert continue to avail themselves of constitutional reservation benefits meant for tribal communities while also receiving support from missionary organisations.

According to Gubin, such a situation creates what he termed a “double benefit” system, raising questions about the purpose and distribution of affirmative action provisions.

Indigenous Faith Protection Efforts

Highlighting efforts to preserve traditional faiths, Gubin said the Arunachal Vikas Parishad has established more than 600 prayer centres across the state. He stated that these centres aim to strengthen indigenous spiritual traditions, promote cultural awareness, and provide community support to tribal populations.

He emphasized that these initiatives are intended to encourage younger generations to remain connected with their ancestral customs, rituals, and belief systems.

Conversions a Greater Challenge Than External Threats

In one of his strongest remarks, Gubin stated that religious conversion represents a more immediate challenge to Arunachal Pradesh than external security concerns.

While acknowledging China's territorial claims over Arunachal Pradesh, he argued that the social and cultural changes brought about by religious conversions pose a greater threat to the state's traditional identity than any immediate external danger.

According to him, the gradual erosion of indigenous customs and practices could have long-term consequences for the preservation of tribal heritage.

Concerns Over Islamic Conversions and Demographic Changes

Gubin further alleged that conversions to Islam among indigenous communities are also increasing and claimed that new organisations are emerging around such conversions.

Additionally, he voiced concern over demographic changes within the state. He alleged that illegal immigrants expelled from neighbouring states often find refuge in Arunachal Pradesh, contributing to shifts in the state's demographic composition.

He stressed the need for stricter monitoring and effective implementation of laws to protect the interests of indigenous tribal communities and maintain the state's demographic balance.

Renewed Debate on Identity and Reservation Policies

Gubin's remarks have once again brought issues of religious conversion, tribal rights, reservation benefits, indigenous faith preservation, and demographic change into public discussion.

The debate continues to generate diverse opinions across Arunachal Pradesh, with supporters arguing for stronger safeguards to protect tribal traditions, while others emphasize constitutional guarantees relating to religious freedom and individual choice.

As discussions intensify, Gubin's statements are likely to further fuel conversations on the future of indigenous identity, cultural preservation, and reservation policies in Arunachal Pradesh.

Five Held as Longding Police Seize Heroin, Opium and ₹5.93 Lakh Cash

 

Longding, May 27:

Longding Police Seize Suspected Heroin, Opium and ₹5.93 Lakh Cash; Five Arrested

In a major anti-narcotics operation, the Longding District Police seized approximately 52 grams of suspected heroin, 460 grams of opium, and cash amounting to ₹5.93 lakh during raids conducted in Tissa and adjoining areas of Longding district.

The operation was carried out as part of the district police’s ongoing crackdown against the growing drug menace in the region.

According to police sources, the operation began on May 26, 2026, at around 7:00 AM during routine motor vehicle (MV) and Inner Line Permit (ILP) checking along the Longding–Tissa road. The checking drive was conducted by a team from Tissa Police Station led by SI T.W. Salingpa.

During the checking, police made a chance recovery of one vial containing suspected heroin. Sustained inquiry and further investigation subsequently revealed possible possession and trafficking of narcotic substances across multiple locations.

Acting on the leads, a police team led by SI T.W. Salingpa, Officer-in-Charge of Tissa PS, along with Executive Magistrate Shri Dingzang Baham and DySP (HQ) Shri Kesang Norbu, carried out coordinated raids under the supervision of SP Longding Shri Dekio Gumja.

The raids were conducted near the Welcome Gate area of Longding Market and at the residence of Smti. Phaton Gangsa near Chitum Bridge in Tissa.

During the operation, police recovered:

Approximately 52 grams of suspected heroin

460 grams of opium

Cash amounting to ₹5,93,000

Other incriminating materials linked to suspected narcotics activities

Police arrested five alleged accused in connection with the case. The arrested individuals have been identified as:

Smti. Phaton Gangsa (45), wife of Late Gangdaw Gangsa, resident of Jagan Village, Camp-Tissa

Smti. Kojam Monwangham (36), wife of Pangleam Monwangham, resident of Niausa village, Longding

Shri Pangleam Monwangham (45), son of Pongchat Monwangham, resident of Niausa village, Longding

Shri Tadun Wangsu (24), son of Pangju Wangsu, resident of Niausa village, Longding

Shri Sajal Rudra Paul (48), son of Sunil Rudra Paul, resident of Nibia Bazar, Sribhumi district, Assam, presently staying at Wakka

Following the seizure and arrests, a case has been registered at Tissa Police Station vide TSA/PS/Case No. 04/2026 under Sections 18(c), 21(a), 21(b), 27(a), and 25 of the NDPS Act.

The investigation has been entrusted to Inspector Tukut Konia for further inquiry into the network and possible interstate links associated with the narcotics trade.

Longding Police stated that sustained anti-drug operations will continue across the district to curb illegal narcotics trafficking and safeguard the youth from substance abuse.

IMC Orders Removal of Roadside Vendors Along NH-415 in Itanagar

 

Itanagar, May 27:

The Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) has issued a public notice directing all roadside meat, vegetable, and fruit vendors operating along National Highway 415 within the Itanagar Capital Region to immediately cease operations and remove their structures within 10 days.

According to the notice issued by the Office of the Commissioner, IMC, dated May 25, 2026, the corporation observed that many vendors have been operating in a “haphazard manner” along the highway roadside, creating concerns related to public health, hygiene, and traffic congestion.

The notice stated that the open sale of meat, fruits, and vegetables under unhygienic conditions poses serious health risks, including the possible transmission of zoonotic diseases such as Anthrax, Leptospirosis, Cysticercosis, Brucellosis, and Rabies.

IMC further said that such roadside commercial activities are also contributing to heavy traffic congestion along NH-415, one of the busiest roads in the capital region.

The corporation noted that these practices violate the District Magistrate’s Executive Order No. DC/Capital/JUD-01/2024 dated September 24, 2024, as well as provisions under Chapter XVI of the Arunachal Pradesh Municipal Corporation Act, 2019 and the Arunachal Pradesh Municipal Act, 2007.

Exercising powers under the relevant municipal laws, IMC has instructed all affected shopkeepers and vendors to vacate and remove their temporary or permanent roadside structures located under the Right of Way (ROW) area of NH-415 within the stipulated 10-day period from the date of issuance of the notice.

The notice warned that failure to comply would result in eviction and demolition drives without further notice. It also stated that all expenses incurred during demolition and debris removal would be recovered from the concerned owners.

The order was issued under the signature of Khoda Lasa, APCS, Joint Commissioner of Itanagar Municipal Corporation, in the interest of public safety and sanitation.

Copies of the notice have been forwarded to the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of IMC, Urban Local Bodies Department, Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Magistrate of ICR/Yupia, Director of Information and Public Relations, and all corporators for necessary action and public circulation.

FIR Filed Over Alleged Hate Posts Against Arunachalees

 

Roing, May 27:

A resident of Arunachal Pradesh has lodged an FIR complaint at Shantipur Police Station in Lower Dibang Valley district against a Facebook account named “Pinky 944” for allegedly posting abusive, caste-based, and threatening content targeting tribal communities and Arunachalee people.

The complainant, Shri Getem Gamno of Kalek village, alleged that the account used derogatory terms such as “junglee” and “dafla” against tribal communities and circulated defamatory posts falsely portraying the community as “drug suppliers” and “girl suppliers.”

According to the complaint, the accused also allegedly threatened to burn Arunachal Pradesh-registered vehicles travelling through Assam, creating fear and insecurity among Arunachalee travellers and members of Scheduled Tribe communities.

The complaint further stated that the social media posts were capable of promoting communal hatred and inciting violence against tribal people, especially those travelling through the region.

Seeking strict legal action, the complainant requested police to register an FIR under relevant sections of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the Information Technology Act. He also appealed for protection and safety of fellow Arunachalee travellers and steps to prevent further circulation of the alleged hateful content.

Documents attached with the complaint show that it was officially received at Shantipur Police Station on May 27, 2026, for investigation.

Arunachal Signs MoA for 1750 MW Demwe Lower Hydropower Project

 

Lohit, May 27:

In a major boost to Arunachal Pradesh’s hydropower sector, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh (GoAP) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Greenko Demwe Power Limited for the implementation of the 1750 MW Demwe Lower Hydroelectric Project in Lohit district.

The project, proposed on the Lohit River near Parashuram Kund, is among the largest hydropower ventures to be undertaken in partnership with a private developer in the State. The initiative marks a significant step towards harnessing Arunachal Pradesh’s vast hydroelectric potential for sustainable growth and clean energy generation.

According to officials, the project is expected to generate around 7,326 Million Units (MU) of clean energy annually. Besides strengthening renewable energy production, the project is also expected to bring major socio-economic benefits through infrastructure development, employment generation, improved connectivity, and increased investment opportunities in the region.

With an installed capacity of 1750 MW, the Demwe Lower Hydroelectric Project is expected to further reinforce Arunachal Pradesh’s position as a key player in India’s renewable energy sector while accelerating regional development.

The State Government reiterated its commitment to responsible and sustainable hydropower development, balancing economic progress with environmental responsibility and the welfare of local communities.

The signing of the agreement is being seen as the beginning of a new phase of growth, opportunity, and transformative development for Arunachal Pradesh.

Tirap Man’s Death in Andhra Sparks Murder Allegations

 

Tirap, May 27:

The family of Kamlo Mophuk, a resident of Lazu village in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tirap district, has alleged foul play in his mysterious death in Andhra Pradesh, calling it a “preplanned murder.”

According to the family, Kamlo had travelled to Andhra Pradesh on May 18 while heading to Karnataka after learning that one of his daughters working in Bangalore was allegedly being harassed at her workplace.

His younger daughter, Ngoyum Mophuk, claimed that Kamlo made a distress call to the family the same day, alleging that he had been brutally assaulted by Md. Amir Ali of Assam’s Hojai district, who is reportedly the boyfriend of one of his daughters. Kamlo allegedly told the family that Amir Ali confirmed his identity using photos and videos before attacking him.

The family further alleged that after escaping, Kamlo sought help at a local police station in Andhra Pradesh but was turned away. His daughters later searched for him for two days but could not trace him and filed a missing person report after returning home.

On May 23, the family was informed by Ongole Police that Kamlo Mophuk’s body had been recovered. The bereaved family has now demanded a fair and impartial investigation, immediate arrest of the accused, and justice for the deceased.

The incident has sparked outrage among locals, with many demanding strict action against those responsible.

10th Balidan Diwas of Ashok Chakra Awardee Hangpan Dada Observed at Borduria

 

Borduria, May 26:

Khonsa Battalion organised a solemn wreath-laying ceremony today at the memorial of Late Havildar Hangpan Dada, Ashok Chakra (Posthumous), at Borduria in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tirap district, commemorating the 10th Balidan Diwas of the brave soldier and paying tribute to his supreme sacrifice, exceptional bravery and unwavering dedication to the nation.

The ceremony was marked by the laying of floral wreaths as a symbol of deep respect and remembrance. Among those who paid homage were Borduria-Bogapani MLA Wanglin Lowangdong, Tirap Deputy Commissioner Techu Aran, Khonsa Superintendent of Police Aditya Singh, Deomali Additional Deputy Commissioner B. Tawsik, and Smt. Chasen Lowang Dada, wife of the martyr.

The event witnessed the participation of Army personnel, civil administration officials, police officers, ex-servicemen, local leaders and members of the public, who gathered to honour the legacy of the decorated soldier.

Smt. Chasen Lowang Dada, wife of the martyr Havildar Hangpan Dada.

As part of the commemorative programme, a bike rally was also organised from Deomali Helipad to the memorial site at Borduria. The rally was conducted to pay tribute to the braveheart and to inspire patriotic spirit among the youth and local residents.

Late Havildar Hangpan Dada was posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra, the nation’s highest peacetime gallantry award, for displaying extraordinary courage and making the supreme sacrifice while fighting terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir in 2016.

The Balidan Diwas ceremony concluded with renewed resolve among attendees to remember and uphold the ideals of courage, patriotism and selfless service exemplified by the martyr.

Rare Blueberry Relative Rediscovered in Arunachal

 

Vijaynagar, May 26:

In a remarkable botanical breakthrough, scientists have rediscovered Vaccinium piliferum, a rare and endangered wild relative of the blueberry, in Arunachal Pradesh nearly 188 years after it was first documented during the colonial era.

The species was rediscovered during extensive field surveys conducted in Vijoynagar of Changlang district by researchers from the Society for Education and Environmental Development (SEED), the CSIR–North East Institute of Science and Technology and collaborating institutions. The findings were recently published in the international peer-reviewed journal Feddes Repertorium.

Researchers stated that the species was originally collected in November 1836 by renowned British botanist William Griffith from the Mishmi Hills region of present-day Arunachal Pradesh. A second collection was later recorded in 1850 from the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya by celebrated botanists Joseph Dalton Hooker and T. Thomson. However, no confirmed sightings or scientific records of the species had been reported for more than a century and a half.

The newly discovered population was located along tributaries of the Noa-Dihing River near Vijoynagar at elevations ranging between 1,150 and 1,280 metres above sea level. Scientists documented only 16 individual plants spread across an area of approximately two square kilometres, with most of the plants occurring in isolated patches far from one another.

Re-discovered Vaccinium piliferum plant.

Already classified as “Endangered” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, the species faces serious threats due to its extremely limited population size and fragile forest habitat. Researchers have also recorded GPS coordinates of the identified plants to support long-term monitoring and future conservation initiatives.

Belonging to the Ericaceae family, which includes blueberries and cranberries, Vaccinium piliferum is described as a climbing shrub capable of growing up to 4.5 metres in height by attaching itself to surrounding trees in dense forest ecosystems. The species produces pale green bell-shaped flowers and dark purple berry-like fruits coated with a whitish-blue waxy layer, closely resembling cultivated blueberries.

According to the study, the rediscovered population displayed several previously undocumented characteristics, including an epiphytic growth habit, reddish leaf margins and distinctive blueberry-like fruits. Scientists noted that these new observations could contribute significantly to the understanding of the species’ ecology and evolutionary adaptation.

Researchers said the rediscovery once again highlights the extraordinary ecological richness of Arunachal Pradesh and the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot. They emphasized that continued botanical exploration and habitat conservation in remote Himalayan forests remain crucial for protecting rare and lesser-known plant species from extinction.

Papum Pare Crowned Boys’ Football Champions at Hangpan Dada Memorial Trophy 2026

 

Boys Football Winner Team Papum Pare and 
The Girls Football Winner Team East Kameng.

Aalo, May 25:

The State Level Hangpan Dada Memorial Trophy 2026 concluded with thrilling finals in football and volleyball, highlighting the growing sporting talent and competitive spirit among youths from across Arunachal Pradesh.

In the much-anticipated Boys’ Football Final, Papum Pare defeated Lower Siang in a dramatic penalty shootout after both teams remained locked 1–1 during regular time. Papum Pare eventually emerged victorious 4–3 in the shootout to lift the championship trophy.

Papum Pare received a cash prize of Rs 2,00,000 along with trophies, medals and certificates, while runners-up Lower Siang received Rs 1,00,000. Tai Raju of Papum Pare, wearing Jersey No. 5, was adjudged the Best Player in Boys’ Football and awarded Rs 15,000.

In the Girls’ Football Final, East Kameng emerged champions after defeating Namsai 3–1 in an exciting contest. Sonia Rangmo (Jersey No. 15) opened the scoring for East Kameng in the 6th minute before Mema Keno (Jersey No. 5) doubled the lead in the 26th minute.

Namsai fought back before halftime as Osi Pegu (Jersey No. 7) found the net in the 34th minute. However, Sonia Rangmo sealed the victory for East Kameng with her second goal of the match in the 56th minute.

East Kameng received a cash prize of Rs 2,00,000 along with trophies, medals and certificates, while runners-up Namsai received Rs 1,00,000. Miss Yanyang Samyor of Shi Yomi, wearing Jersey No. 10, was adjudged the Best Player in Girls’ Football and awarded Rs 15,000.

Boys Volleyball Winner Team Kurung Kumey
and Girls Volleyball Winner Team Capital Complex.

In the Girls’ Volleyball Final, Capital Complex lifted the championship trophy after defeating Keyi Panyor in an exciting three-set encounter with scores of 25–22, 20–25 and 15–9.

Capital Complex received a cash award of Rs 1,00,000, while runners-up Keyi Panyor received Rs 75,000. Miss Teresa Yangfo of Capital Complex, wearing Jersey No. 7, was declared the Best Player in Girls’ Volleyball and awarded Rs 15,000.

In the Boys’ Volleyball Final, Kurung Kumey defeated Upper Subansiri with scores of 25–22, 22–25 and 15–10 to claim the title.

Kurung Kumey received Rs 1,00,000 as prize money, while runners-up Upper Subansiri received Rs 75,000. Mr. Popmar Bulo of Upper Subansiri, wearing Jersey No. 3, was named the Best Player in Boys’ Volleyball and awarded Rs 15,000.

The programme concluded with the felicitation of all District Sports Officers and technical officials of football and volleyball for their dedicated efforts towards the successful conduct of the tournament.

The successful completion of the tournament once again showcased the immense sporting talent, discipline and competitive spirit among the youths of Arunachal Pradesh.

Gumin Mize Case: Fresh Video Surfaces Amid Custodial Assault Claims

 

Itanagar, May 25:

Fresh visuals allegedly showing physical injury marks on anti-drug activist Gumin Mize have surfaced online, intensifying public debate surrounding his arrest and alleged custodial assault.

The development comes hours after Lakhimpur Senior Superintendent of Police Gunendra Deka, during a press briefing on Monday, rejected claims linked to previously circulated photographs and stated that the images circulating on social media were neither from the police station, hospital nor the court.

According to the SSP, Gumin Mize had also alleged before the court that he was tortured in custody. He stated that a medical examination was conducted following court orders and the report did not indicate any physical abuse or harm on Mize. The SSP further said that the media could access the medical reports.

Earlier, photographs purportedly showing bruises and injury marks on Mize’s body had surfaced across social media platforms and several news channels. However, the emergence of a full video allegedly showing physical injury marks has now raised serious questions over the statements made during the press briefing by SSP Gunendra Deka.

The authenticity of the newly surfaced visuals has not been independently verified.

Meanwhile, members of the Arunachal Anti-Drug Warriors alleged that Mize was physically assaulted while in custody following his arrest near Itanagar on May 20. According to the group, they were allowed to meet him on May 23 after obtaining police permission and allegedly noticed bruises on his arms, back, and legs during the interaction.

The emergence of the latest video has further intensified demands from several quarters for an independent investigation into the matter.

In a related development, the Adi Students’ Union has announced a 12-hour bandh across the Adi belt on May 27 in connection with the ongoing Gumin Mize issue. The union strongly condemned the alleged torture of the anti-drug activist and demanded justice.

The bandh is expected to affect normal movement and public services in several areas across the region during the protest period.

Arunachal Climbs to Akanshi-1 in Latest PGI 2.0 Education Report

 

New Delhi, May 25:

Arunachal Pradesh has recorded one of the sharpest improvements in school education performance among northeastern states in the latest Performance Grading Index (PGI) 2.0 report released by the Union Ministry of Education for 2024–25.

According to the report, Arunachal Pradesh secured 527 out of 1,000 points, registering an improvement of more than 65 points from the previous assessment cycle. With the latest rise, the state has climbed into the Akanshi-1 grade category, marking a significant milestone for the frontier state’s education sector.

Although the state continues to trail the country’s top-performing education systems, the latest report highlights visible progress in key areas, particularly educational equity and school access. The improvement reflects gradual gains in reaching students from remote, rural, and disadvantaged communities across Arunachal Pradesh.

The Performance Grading Index evaluates states and Union Territories across six major domains:

Learning Outcomes and Quality Access

Infrastructure and Facilities

Equity

Governance Processes

Teacher Education and Training

Despite the improvement, the report also underlines several persistent structural challenges facing Arunachal Pradesh. Learning outcomes in many districts remain below stronger-performing states, while infrastructure gaps, shortage of facilities in remote schools, difficult terrain, and administrative bottlenecks continue to impact the education system.

Education observers say the latest jump nevertheless signals positive momentum for the state, especially considering the logistical and geographical difficulties involved in delivering educational services across remote mountainous regions.

Northeast India Records Uneven Progress

The latest PGI 2.0 report presents a mixed picture for Northeast India, with some states recording major gains while others continue to struggle in core education indicators.

Assam emerged as the best-performing northeastern state with a score of 593.6, improving by more than 82 points and entering the Prachesta-3 category. The state performed strongly in governance, learning outcomes, and access indicators. 

Sikkim also registered significant progress by scoring 603.3 and moving into the Prachesta-3 grade band. The Himalayan state recorded some of the region’s highest scores in infrastructure and school facilities.

On the other hand, Meghalaya continued to remain the lowest-performing state in the country with a score of 448, staying in the Akanshi-3 category. The report highlighted continuing weaknesses in governance systems, infrastructure, and learning outcomes.

The Ministry of Education noted that interstate disparities in school education performance have gradually narrowed over the years due to increased monitoring, reforms, and targeted interventions. According to the report, the national performance gap among states has reduced significantly since the introduction of the PGI framework, indicating gradual improvement in overall school education standards across the country.