Itanagar, May 15: Tension continued across parts of the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) in Arunachal Pradesh following the 36-hour bandh called by the Arunachal ST Bachao Aandolan Committee over issues related to the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, even as authorities later released all detained activists after revoking preventive detention orders.
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| Large crowds gather during protests in Arunachal Pradesh’s Itanagar Capital Region amid tensions over the ST Bachao agitation and demands related to the Inner Line Permit system. |
The bandh, which began on May 14, led to disruptions in normal life across the capital region, including reduced vehicular movement, closure of shops and road blockades in several areas. Protesters staged demonstrations near the old petrol pump in Itanagar’s C Sector, where tyres were burnt on the road, severely affecting traffic movement and forcing commuters to take alternate routes.
Large numbers of people also gathered in Naharlagun to protest the detention of members of the ST Bachao Aandolan Committee by the ICR Police. Demonstrators demanded the immediate release of the detained individuals, alleging that the police action was unfair. Security personnel remained deployed in sensitive areas to maintain law and order, while officials described the overall situation as tense but under control.
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Amid the growing unrest, the Apatani Youth Association (AYA) announced a 12-hour bandh in Lower Subansiri district in support of detained activists Sol Dodum, Millo Ambo and Tana Tamar, while also pressing for the digitalisation of the ILP system. In a memorandum submitted to the state Home Minister, the organisation stated that the bandh was a peaceful democratic protest seeking the release of the activists and stronger safeguards for indigenous tribal communities.
The AYA further urged the government to expedite the digitalisation of the ILP mechanism, stating that a fully digital system would improve transparency, accessibility and monitoring of non-residents entering the state. The memorandum was signed by AYA President Subu Sala and General Secretary Tapi Tamang.
Later on Friday, the District Magistrate of the ICR officially revoked the preventive detention orders issued against the detained activists under the Arunachal Pradesh Prevention of Unlawful Activities Act, 2014. Those released included Millo Ambo, Sol Dodum, Tana Tamar, Diktup Yikar, Raj Brey, Samtang Towsik, Okaylum Mum and Md Azad Islam.
The decision followed appeals from community representatives and information that the ST Bachao Aandolan Committee had called off the bandh in the interest of restoring peace and normalcy in the region.
Addressing the media, Byabang Joram said the movement was aimed at protecting the rights and interests of the indigenous tribal people of Arunachal Pradesh and reiterated demands for stronger safeguards in the ILP regime.
