NERIST Scholars Seek Director’s Reinstatement

 

Itanagar, June 1:

Concern continues to mount at the North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST) following the resignation of its Director on May 29. The NERIST Research Scholars Association (NRSA) has called for immediate intervention by the authorities, alleging that the Director was compelled to resign after a group associated with an external organization reportedly entered his office and pressured him to step down. The association said the incident has created an atmosphere of uncertainty across the campus, affecting students, faculty members, researchers, and non-teaching staff.

Expressing concern over the development, NRSA President John Yigam stated that the outgoing Director had played a key role in advancing the institute’s academic and developmental activities. According to the association, his sudden departure could adversely impact ongoing initiatives and hamper the overall functioning of the premier institution. The scholars stressed that stable leadership is essential for maintaining academic continuity and institutional growth.

The association also highlighted the challenges NERIST faced during the years prior to 2018 when the institute was administered by Directors-in-Charge, arguing that the absence of a permanent Director could once again lead to administrative setbacks.

 Clarifying that it is not affiliated with any political party, organization, or individual, the NRSA maintained that its concerns are solely focused on protecting the academic interests of the institute and its students. It has urged the authorities to either reinstate the Director or facilitate the withdrawal of his resignation.

Warning against prolonged uncertainty, the research scholars cautioned that continued instability could trigger unrest on campus and disrupt academic activities, drawing parallels with the disturbances and book boycotts witnessed in 2018. 

Appealing to the Government of Arunachal Pradesh and all concerned stakeholders for urgent intervention, the association emphasized that the welfare of students and the future of the institute must remain above political considerations. The NRSA asserted that a swift resolution is necessary to safeguard NERIST’s academic integrity, administrative stability, and reputation.

Three Arunachal Scholars Meet President Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan

 

New Delhi/Itanagar, June 2:

Arunachal Pradesh earned a moment of pride as three distinguished scholars from the state participated in a Special Interactive Meeting with the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, held under the “Birsa Lives in New Bharat Week” initiative. The programme was organised by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, as part of the nationwide Janjatiya Garima Utsav commemorating the legacy and contributions of tribal icon Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

The interaction was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, where around 200 tribal students and scholars from across the country, benefiting from various scholarship schemes of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, had the opportunity to engage directly with the President of India. The event served as a significant platform for young achievers from tribal communities to reflect on the transformative role of education, inclusion, empowerment, and nation-building while celebrating the enduring legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

200 tribal students and scholars from across the country with
President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi.

Representing Arunachal Pradesh at the prestigious event were Dr. Tuyir Riba, Assistant Professor at Assam Don Bosco University; Dr. Baanu Loya, Chief Executive Officer of RuBIC, Rajiv Gandhi University; and Dr. Lali Lingfa, Scientist-B at Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS).

 All three scholars successfully completed their doctoral studies under the National Fellowship for Scheduled Tribes (NFST), a flagship fellowship programme aimed at promoting higher education and research among Scheduled Tribe students.

Congratulating the scholars, Arunachal Pradesh Education Minister P.D. Sona said their participation in the interaction with the President reflects the academic excellence and growing achievements of the state's youth. He noted that their accomplishment not only brings honour to Arunachal Pradesh but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring students to pursue higher education and strive for excellence with confidence, dedication, and purpose.

Tame Phassang Joins Race for BJP Rajya Sabha Nomination

 

Tame Phassang with BJP State President Kaling Moyong in BJP office Itanagar.

Itanagar, June 2:

Former Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) Mayor Tame Phassang has formally expressed his willingness to contest the upcoming Rajya Sabha election from Arunachal Pradesh, submitting his application to BJP Arunachal Pradesh president Kaling Moyong and seeking the party's nomination for the lone seat.

Phassang stated that he remains committed to serving the people of Arunachal Pradesh with sincerity, dedication and a spirit of public service if given the opportunity to represent the state in the Upper House of Parliament. He also sought the support of the party leadership as the BJP begins the process of selecting its nominee.

His entry comes at a time when the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party is witnessing significant interest in the Rajya Sabha seat. Speaking at a recent press conference, state BJP president Kaling Moyong confirmed that 12 aspirants have submitted their applications for the party ticket, though he refrained from disclosing their identities officially.

According to party sources, the list of aspirants reportedly includes Environment, Forest, Geology and Mining Minister Wangki Lowang; incumbent Rajya Sabha MP Nabam Rebia; Pasighat West MLA and former Lok Sabha MP Ninong Ering; former ministers Taba Tedir and Tage Taki; former state BJP presidents Tai Tagak and Dr Tangor Tapak; Forest Corporation Chairman Nalong Mize; BJP Core Committee member Kenyir Ringu; state executive member Dotam Sora; BJP leader Nuney Tayang; entrepreneur and Kurung Kumey district BJP vice president Ha Tatu; and former IMC Mayor Tame Phassang.

The large number of contenders highlights the importance attached to the lone Rajya Sabha seat and presents the party leadership with the task of balancing organisational experience, political representation and electoral considerations. Several aspirants have long-standing associations with the party and have held key positions in government and the organisation.

Party sources indicate that the selection process will involve consultations between the state leadership and the BJP's central leadership. Recommendations from Chief Minister Pema Khandu, state BJP president Kaling Moyong and other senior leaders are expected to play an important role before a final decision is taken.

With multiple prominent leaders and party veterans in the fray, the BJP's choice for the Rajya Sabha nomination is being closely watched across the state. The party is expected to announce its candidate after completing internal deliberations and consultations in the coming days.

AAPSU Rejects TMPK Demand, Reaffirms ILP Mandatory for All Non-APSTs

 

Itanagar, June 1:

The All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) has categorically rejected the stance taken by the Assam-based Takam Mising Porin Kebang (TMPK) against the application of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system to members of the Mising community residing in Arunachal Pradesh.

Responding to TMPK's recent statement, AAPSU President Meje Taku asserted that the ILP system remains a non-negotiable constitutional and legal mechanism designed to safeguard the rights, identity, and interests of the indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh. He emphasized that the regulation applies uniformly to all non-Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe (non-APST) individuals without exception.

While acknowledging the historical presence of the Mising community in the region and their longstanding cultural and social ties with several indigenous tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, Taku maintained that such associations cannot override the legal framework governing entry and residence in the state.

"The Inner Line Permit system is not a matter of sentiment or community preference. It is a constitutional and statutory safeguard meant to protect the indigenous character of Arunachal Pradesh. No community, irrespective of historical ties or ethnolinguistic affinity, can claim exemption from a law that applies equally to all non-APST persons entering or residing in the state," Taku stated.

Reiterating the Union's position, he said AAPSU remains firm that the ILP requirement is mandatory for every non-APST individual and that there can be no compromise on the issue.

AAPSU further stressed that the ILP system is not an arbitrary administrative measure but is deeply rooted in constitutional and statutory provisions. The permit regime derives its authority from the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, which was retained to protect the demographic and cultural integrity of indigenous communities in the region.

The Union also highlighted that Article 371(H) of the Constitution of India grants special responsibilities to the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh concerning law and order, reinforcing the state's unique constitutional safeguards and the necessity of preserving mechanisms such as the ILP.

AAPSU maintained that the continued enforcement of the ILP remains essential for protecting the interests, identity, and customary rights of the indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh.

Boundary Forum Holds Peaceful Rally in Daporijo, Seeks Early Resolution

 

Daporijo, June 1:

Members of the Upper Subansiri–Kamle District Boundary Disputed People's Forum on Sunday organized a peaceful rally in Daporijo, demanding immediate resolution of the long-pending boundary dispute between Upper Subansiri and Kamle districts.

The rally was held after obtaining official permission from the Deputy Commissioner of Upper Subansiri district. According to the order issued on May 27, 2026, the procession was allowed to proceed from Veterinary Colony to the DC Office via New Market and Gandhi Market between 10 am and 12 noon on June 1.

Led by chairman Dosh Dasi Tamin, participants marched through the town carrying banners and placards highlighting their demands. The forum called for immediate demarcation of the Upper Subansiri–Kamle district boundary, re-notification of the Arunachal Pradesh government notification issued on May 27, 2025, conduct of Census 2026 in the affected areas, and construction of a welcome gate for Upper Subansiri district at JNV Gate.

The protesters urged the government and concerned authorities to take prompt action on the boundary issue, which they said continues to affect residents living in the disputed areas. 

The rally concluded peacefully at the DC Office, with organizers maintaining that their movement is aimed at securing administrative clarity and safeguarding the interests of the affected population.

Nyobia Circle Declared Tobacco-Free

 

Koloriang, May 31:

World No Tobacco Day was observed at Nyobia General Ground, Koloriang, on Saturday, during which Nyobia Circle under Sangram Administrative Block was officially declared a Tobacco-Free Circle.

The programme was inaugurated by Shri Pama Bagang, ADC Nyapin, in the presence of Dr. Tadar Tagh, DRCHO-cum-District Nodal Officer (NTCP), Shri Hillang Taro, ZPM Sangram, Shri Bamang Taniang, former AAPSU member and social worker, the Circle Officer of Nyobia, Officer-in-Charge of Sangram Police Station, Heads of Departments, Gaon Burahs, PRI members, youth representatives, Medical Officers of CHC Sangram, Health and Wellness Officer Nyobia, members of the District Tobacco Control Cell (DTCC), and the public.

Speakers highlighted the harmful effects of tobacco use and stressed the importance of community participation in promoting a tobacco-free environment, particularly among younger generations.

World No Tobacco Day, observed annually on 31 May, is a global initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO) aimed at raising awareness about the health risks associated with tobacco use and encouraging measures to reduce tobacco consumption.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders and residents to support tobacco-control efforts and maintain the tobacco-free status of Nyobia Circle.

Mising Community Should Not Be Under ILP Regime: TMPK

 

Itanagar, May 31:

Tilak Doley, President of the Takam Mising Porin Kebang (TMPK), has stated that while the Mising community supports the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Arunachal Pradesh for the protection of indigenous tribal identity, it cannot accept the application of the ILP regime to the community.

In a statement shared on social media, Doley said TMPK has always supported the safeguarding of indigenous communities. However, he maintained that the Mising people should not be treated in the same manner as outsiders for the purpose of ILP implementation, citing historical and long-standing socio-cultural ties with Arunachal Pradesh.

He said demands to bring the Mising community under the ILP regime overlook the historical relationship between the Mising people and Arunachal Pradesh. Doley noted that the Mising, Nyishi, Adi, Galo, Apatani and Tagin communities broadly belong to the Tibeto-Burman ethnolinguistic family and have shared historical and cultural connections. He also pointed out that members of the Mising community continue to reside in districts such as East Siang, Lower Siang, Namsai and Papum Pare.

According to Doley, the Mising people maintained deep-rooted links with Arunachal Pradesh even before the introduction of the ILP system by the British administration, making demands to apply ILP to the community unnecessary and unfortunate.

He also opposed resistance to granting Permanent Resident Certificates (PRC) to Mising residents of Arunachal Pradesh and described attempts to impose ILP on the community as regrettable.

“The Mising people are not seeking to assert dominance or demand special privileges in Arunachal Pradesh. However, based on historical context and long-standing ties, we cannot accept the application of ILP to the Mising community,” Doley said.

BJYM Seeks FIR Over Fake CM Resignation Report

 

Itanagar, May 31:

The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), Itanagar District Unit, has lodged a complaint with the Itanagar Police Station seeking registration of an FIR over the circulation of alleged fake news claiming that Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu had resigned from office.

In a letter submitted to the Officer-in-Charge of Itanagar Police Station on May 31, BJYM Itanagar District President Oje Jerang alleged that false and misleading information regarding Khandu's resignation was circulated through the official Facebook page of NE News. The youth wing stated that the publication of the unverified report created confusion among the public and had the potential to disturb public harmony while tarnishing the reputation of both the Chief Minister and the Government of Arunachal Pradesh.

The complaint named several officials associated with Prag Network and NE News, including Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Sanjive Narain, President Akshata Narain, Editor-in-Chief Prasanta Rajguru, and Channel Head Nabanitta Kalita. BJYM urged the police to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and take appropriate legal action against those responsible for allegedly spreading misinformation on social media platforms.

The development comes amid ongoing speculation surrounding allegations against Chief Minister Pema Khandu. On Sunday, the Arunachal Pradesh BJP closed ranks behind the Chief Minister, asserting that the party remains united and that any decision regarding leadership would only be taken after the completion of the judicial process.

State BJP President Kaling Moyong said the party would respect and abide by the judicial process and refrain from making any premature decisions while investigations are underway. He emphasized that the BJP remains committed to due process and would not be guided by speculation or unverified reports.

The BJP's statement came a day after party leaders strongly dismissed reports suggesting that Khandu was stepping down as Chief Minister, describing the claims as false, misleading, and without any factual basis.

The controversy has sparked widespread discussion across social media, with BJP leaders and party workers calling for responsible journalism and caution against the dissemination of unverified information that could mislead the public and create unnecessary confusion.

Chimpu Police Conducts Capacity-Building Session to Enhance Professional Policing

 

Itanagar, May 31:

In a significant step towards strengthening professional policing and improving service delivery, Chimpu Police Station conducted a comprehensive capacity-building session for all officers and staff on Saturday under the leadership of the Officer-in-Charge.

The session was organized with the objective of enhancing operational efficiency, reinforcing professional standards, and promoting a citizen-centric approach to policing. During the programme, personnel were sensitized on several crucial aspects of police work, including professional conduct, effective public interaction, quality investigation practices, proper maintenance of records, adherence to legal and procedural requirements, and timely response to law and order situations.

Special emphasis was placed on discipline, accountability, integrity, and ethical policing, with officers encouraged to uphold the highest standards of professionalism while carrying out their duties. The session also highlighted the importance of maintaining public trust through transparent and responsible policing practices.

The interactive programme provided an opportunity for officers and staff to engage in constructive discussions, share experiences, address operational challenges, and exchange ideas aimed at improving overall performance and efficiency. Participants were also motivated to continuously upgrade their skills and knowledge to meet the evolving demands of modern policing.

Officials stated that such capacity-building initiatives play a vital role in boosting morale, fostering teamwork, and strengthening the collective commitment of the force towards public service. The programme is expected to contribute significantly to enhancing the effectiveness and responsiveness of the police station in serving the community.

The session concluded on a positive and encouraging note and was followed by a team lunch at Galo Foods, Chimpu, which further promoted camaraderie, unity, and esprit de corps among the personnel.

The initiative reflects the continued commitment of Chimpu Police Station towards professional excellence and efficient public service.

Zero-Tolerance on Drugs: Woman Arrested in East Siang Raid

 

Pasighat, May 30:

In a significant breakthrough under Operation Dawn 2.0, the East Siang Police arrested a woman identified as Opera Pegu and seized approximately 1.3 kilograms of suspected ganja during a raid conducted at Oyan Village under the jurisdiction of Sille-Oyan Police Station.

The operation was carried out by a team from Sille-Oyan Police Station in the presence of Executive Magistrate Dubom Apang, ensuring transparency and adherence to legal procedures throughout the raid.

Following the seizure, a case has been registered under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and further investigation is currently underway to ascertain the source and network linked to the contraband.

Superintendent of Police, East Siang, Pankaj Lamba, IPS, reiterated the district police's firm commitment to maintaining a drug-free society and emphasized the department's zero-tolerance policy against drug-related offences.

Meanwhile, Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung lauded the successful operation and commended the efforts of SI Yike Lomri and the entire police team for their professionalism, dedication, and swift action. He also praised SP Pankaj Lamba for his resolute leadership in the district's ongoing fight against illegal drugs.

"Such decisive actions reflect our unwavering commitment to eliminating the menace of drugs from society. We will continue to adopt a zero-tolerance approach against drug trafficking and substance abuse," the Home Minister stated.

He further appealed to citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies by immediately reporting any suspicious drug-related activities in their localities.

The latest arrest underscores the continued efforts of East Siang Police under Operation Dawn 2.0 to curb the spread of narcotics and safeguard communities from the harmful effects of drug abuse and trafficking.

AAPYO Demands Suspension of Cops, Rs 1 Crore for Gumin Mize

 

Itanagar, May 30:

The All Arunachal Pradesh Youth Organization (AAPYO) has demanded the immediate suspension of all police personnel allegedly involved in the custodial torture of anti-drug activist Gumin Mize, while also seeking compensation of Rs 1 crore for the mental and physical suffering he is alleged to have endured during his detention.

In a representation submitted to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), North Lakhimpur, on Saturday, the organization expressed serious concern over the alleged custodial abuse of Mize and called for a thorough, fair, and impartial investigation into the incident.

According to AAPYO, Mize sustained grievous injuries while in police custody. The organization stated that photographs reportedly taken after his release show multiple bruises, swelling, and blue marks on different parts of his body. It alleged that the injuries indicate severe physical assault and raise serious questions regarding the treatment meted out to him during his detention.

AAPYO further claimed that the alleged custodial torture caused significant mental trauma to Mize, adversely affecting his physical and psychological well-being. In view of the alleged suffering endured by the anti-drug activist, the organization demanded that the authorities provide compensation of Rs 1 crore as a measure of relief and justice.

The youth organization also urged the police administration and concerned authorities to ensure accountability by taking strict action against any personnel found responsible after due investigation. It emphasized that incidents of alleged custodial violence undermine public confidence in law enforcement agencies and highlighted the need for transparency and adherence to legal procedures.

AAPYO reiterated that every citizen is entitled to protection under the law and that allegations of custodial abuse must be dealt with seriously to uphold the principles of justice and human rights.

The organization had earlier, on May 25, sought departmental action against police personnel allegedly involved in the incident. At that time, it stressed that accountability, due process, and respect for human rights are essential for maintaining public trust in law enforcement institutions.

AAPYO has now renewed its appeal for swift action, calling on the authorities to conduct an impartial inquiry and ensure that those found responsible are held accountable in accordance with the law.