Three local organisations in Arunachal Pradesh — the Indigenous Youth Force of Arunachal (IYFA), the Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO) and the All Naharlagun Youth Organisation (ANYO) — called a 12-hour bandh across the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) on Tuesday.

Their principal demands include:

  • Action regarding the Capital Jama Masjid at Naharlagun
  • A total ban on weekly markets in the Capital Region
  • Identification and deportation of individuals alleged to be illegal immigrants

The bandh was announced for 5 am to 5 pm, despite the district administration declaring it “illegal and unlawful”.

Police deploy security, urge restraint

Inspector-General of Police (Law & Order) Chukhu Apa said “adequate security arrangements” had been made to maintain peace and prevent any disruption.

He appealed to supporters to uphold democratic norms and warned that strict action would be taken against anyone attempting coercion or unlawful behaviour during the shutdown.

“We will not tolerate unlawful activities or any form of coercion during the bandh,” Apa stated.

As of Tuesday afternoon, no untoward incidents had been reported, APIYO President Taro Sonam Liyak confirmed.

Organisations say longstanding grievances ignored

The groups stated that their concerns have been raised since October 6, but they allege that the government has not responded adequately.

According to the organisations:

  • A meeting scheduled for December 5 with government representatives did not take place.
  • Their petitions were submitted to several offices, including the Chief Minister’s Office, without receiving any reply.
  • An earlier bandh planned on November 25 had been postponed due to festivals and sports events.

They report that their representations covered multiple issues, including:

  • Action on illegal or unauthorised constructions
  • Regulation of unauthorised settlements
  • Closure of daily and weekly markets considered unregulated

Although one of the key points includes the removal of a masjid structure, the organisations describe their bandh as a broader “public and indigenous call”, appealing for support from transport unions and business communities.

Essential services exempted

To minimise public hardship, essential services such as ambulances, milk supply and movement of students appearing for examinations were exempted. Students were advised to carry valid ID cards while travelling.

Local civil bodies had urged the groups to reconsider the bandh, citing election-related activities and the inconvenience caused to residents.

Government yet to respond formally

The organisations say that if any incident occurs during the bandh, the government should be held responsible due to what they describe as prolonged inaction. Meanwhile, the administration continues monitoring the situation closely and has reiterated that peace, safety and lawful conduct remain top priorities.