Itanagar, February 23: In a significant political development, the Arunachal Democratic Party (ADP) on Monday formally merged with the Indian National Congress (INC) during an induction ceremony held at the party’s state headquarters in Itanagar.
 |
| Leaders of the Arunachal Democratic Party join the Indian National Congress during an induction ceremony at the APCC headquarters in Itanagar. |
With the merger, former ADP president Adv Tami Pangu, along with the party’s vice president, general secretaries, treasurer, spokesperson and other office-bearers, joined the Congress fold. The members were welcomed by Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bosiram Siram in the presence of senior state leaders and party functionaries.
Siram assured the newly inducted members of “equal responsibility and opportunity” within the party structure and described the induction as a positive step towards strengthening the organisation in the state.
Ideological Alignment, Not Political Convenience
Explaining the decision, Adv Tami Pangu said the merger was guided by ideological conviction and faith in the Congress party’s commitment to democracy, secularism and constitutional values.
“This is not merely a political shift but an ideological alignment to safeguard democratic institutions and strengthen constitutional governance,” he said.
Pangu clarified that the development would not alter the party’s strength in the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly, as the ADP had no representation in the House. The Congress currently has one MLA in the Assembly.
Focus on State Issues
The former ADP leaders stated that under the Congress platform, they would continue to raise key issues affecting the state, including a review of Article 371(H), concerns over hydropower projects and alleged illegal mining activities.
ALSO READ: Arunachal Administrative Reforms Commission Submits Preliminary Report to CM
They also flagged broader challenges such as unemployment, inflation, corruption and weakening institutions, calling for corrective measures and people-centric governance.
Pangu expressed gratitude to former Chief Minister Gegong Apang for providing them a political platform and acknowledged the leadership of AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. He also credited Bosiram Siram’s leadership and his opposition to the ruling BJP in the state as factors influencing their decision.
Describing the merger as a “new chapter” in Arunachal Pradesh politics, the newly inducted members pledged to work towards transparency, inclusive development and the strengthening of democratic institutions in the state.
