Itanagar, Dec 9: The Capital Region of Arunachal Pradesh came to a standstill today as the Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO) enforced a 12-hour Capital Bandh, severely disrupting daily life across Itanagar and Naharlagun.
Shops, markets and business establishments remained closed, while traffic movement dropped sharply. Public transport stayed off the roads, resulting in near-deserted streets throughout the day.
The Itanagar District Administration (DA) had earlier declared the bandh illegal, urging residents to continue normal activities. Despite this, several groups of youths assembled at various points to support the bandh.
Police, acting on DA directives, detained multiple protesters early in the morning to prevent any escalation. A viral video from the scene captured detained youths pleading with the police, saying, “Please sir, hum log peaceful karrai… hum log peaceful karne doh,” emphasizing that their demonstration was intended to be peaceful.
In response to the detentions and the ongoing agitation, the APIYO President released a video statement reaffirming that the organisation would continue the bandh and its democratic movement, asserting that the protest aims to safeguard the rights of Arunachal Pradesh and protect indigenous communities.
In a crucial media interaction today, Hon’ble Home Minister Mama Natung addressed concerns raised by APIYO regarding their submitted memorandum and the bandh call. He assured the public that the government is closely examining their demands and urged all stakeholders to maintain peace while constructive dialogue continues.
Security has been tightened across the Capital Region, and officials report that the situation remains under control with no major incidents so far.
