ITANAGAR : A partial shutdown was observed across the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) following a 36-hour bandh called by the Arunachal ST Bachao Andolan Committee, which demanded stricter implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system and protection of indigenous tribal identity.
The bandh evoked a mixed response, with several shops, schools and business establishments remaining closed in parts of the capital region. However, vehicular movement and public activity continued in many areas, and the overall situation remained largely peaceful.
Police detained five persons allegedly associated with the bandh call, while security arrangements were intensified across sensitive locations to maintain law and order.
Home Minister Mama Natung visited several parts of the capital region, including Akashdeep, Naharlagun, Nirjuli and Banderdewa, and appealed to traders and residents to maintain normalcy. He interacted with shopkeepers, local residents and officials, assuring them that no official authorisation had been granted for the bandh and urging citizens to continue normal activities without fear or confusion.
“Our government remains firmly committed to strengthening the ILP system and safeguarding the interests of the indigenous people of the state. However, bandh calls that disrupt normal life and cause financial losses, particularly to small and medium businesses, cannot be considered a constructive solution”, Natung said.
Following the minister’s appeal, some shops reopened in parts of the capital, while several establishments continued to remain closed in certain areas.
The situation remained largely peaceful throughout the day under close police monitoring.
Meanwhile, the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes’ Forum (AITF) has appealed to the ST Bachao Andolan Committee to call off the ongoing ICR bandh in view of the demise of AITF president Dr Bengia Tolum, describing his death as a major loss for the indigenous people of the state.
In a letter addressed to the chairman of the ST Bachao Andolan Committee, the apex tribal body said Tolum, who passed away at the Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS), Naharlagun, had rendered yeoman service to the people of Arunachal Pradesh through decades of selfless social work.
The forum stated that Tolum remained committed to safeguarding the interests of indigenous communities and served as president of the AITF for 16 years, from 2010 until his death.
“Dr Bengia Tolum breathed his last a while ago at TRIHMS, Naharlagun, which is a great loss not only to the family but also for the state of Arunachal Pradesh,” the letter said.
Seeking suspension of the bandh, the organisation urged the agitators to allow people from all communities to pay their final respects to the departed leader during his last rites at Yazali.
“In honour of his dedicated services rendered for our indigenous people of the state, the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes’ Forum (AITF) would request ST Bachao Andolan Committee to call off the ongoing capital bandh,” the appeal stated.
