Itanagar, May 29, 2026: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday announced that the state government has agreed to constitute four High-Powered Committees to examine key issues raised by the ST Bachao Andolan following discussions with stakeholders.
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| Chief Minister Pema Khandu chairs a stakeholder meeting on key demands raised by the ST Bachao Andolan. (Photo: CMO Arunachal Pradesh) |
The decision was taken after a meeting involving representatives of the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF), All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU), ST Bachao Andolan Committee, government officials, and legal experts.
According to the Chief Minister, the committees will study and recommend measures on four major issues that have been at the centre of public debate in the state. These include the re-verification of Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe (APST) certificates, issues relating to non-APST offspring, strengthening the Inner Line Permit (ILP) framework and reviewing the ILP Guidelines 2026, as well as addressing concerns over illegal infiltration.
Khandu said each committee will be headed by a leader of Cabinet Minister rank and will comprise representatives from AITF, AAPSU, the ST Bachao Andolan Committee, legal experts, research scholars, and women representatives. The inclusion of diverse stakeholders is aimed at ensuring a balanced, inclusive, and action-oriented approach to the issues under consideration.
The Chief Minister described the move as an important step toward addressing concerns raised by indigenous communities while ensuring that the process remains transparent, consultative, and legally sound.
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The formation of the committees follows sustained demands by the ST Bachao Andolan, which has been seeking stronger safeguards for indigenous rights, stricter verification mechanisms, and enhanced measures to protect the interests of Scheduled Tribe communities in Arunachal Pradesh.
Khandu informed that the official notification constituting the four High-Powered Committees will be issued by Monday.
The committees are expected to submit recommendations that could guide future government policy and legislative decisions on issues related to tribal identity, indigenous rights, and population regulation in the state.
