May 31, 2026 10:20 am
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ONLINE AGE

(Online version of the Arunachal Age newspaper)

Author name: OnlineAge

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Blood donation camp held

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PASIGHAT : A Pan Arunachal Voluntary Blood Donation Programme was organised at Bakin Pertin General Hospital (BPGH), Pasighat, on Saturday, with 25 units of blood collected to strengthen the hospital’s blood bank. The programme was held in memory of late Dr Minge Loyi, former president of Galo Welfare Society (GWS), on his seventh death anniversary, commemorating his lifelong commitment to public service. The blood donation drive was inaugurated by BPGH Medical Superintendent Dr B Apum, who lauded the initiative and encouraged more people to participate in voluntary blood donation campaigns. The donation process was conducted under the supervision of Blood Bank Officer Dr D Modi and his medical team. Organised by the Galo Ao Blood Donation Group, the programme was led by chairman Kengo Zirdo and vice-chairman Gebi Kambu, under the guidance of GWS East Siang District Unit president Er Minkar Doji, general secretary Jompa Kakki and women wing president Gumpi Angu Riba. The drive witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of the community, with 20 men and five women voluntarily donating blood. Organisers said the collected units would help meet emergency requirements and support patients in need of transfusions. The organisers expressed gratitude to all donors, medical personnel, volunteers and Border Roads Task Force (BRTF) personnel for their support in making the programme a success. They also appealed to the public to embrace voluntary blood donation, stating that a single donation can help save lives.

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Woman held with suspected ganja

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PASIGHAT : In a major anti-drug operation under Operation Dawn 2.0, East Siang Police arrested a woman and seized approximately 1.3 kilograms of suspected ganja during a search operation conducted at Oyan village under Sille-Oyan Police Station. Acting on credible information regarding the alleged sale of suspected ganja in the village, a police team was constituted on May 29 under the supervision of Additional Deputy Superintendent of Police Ayup Boko. The operation was led by Sille-Oyan Police Station Officer-in-Charge SI Yike Lomri and included SI A.R. Doley, LSI Kiryum Taipodia, ASI Tajing Tamuk, Head Constable Katin Mingki and Constable Amor Hemi. Accompanied by Sille-Oyan Circle Officer and Executive Magistrate Dubom Apang, the team conducted a search at the residence of Totong Pegu. During the operation, suspected ganja weighing about 1.3 kg, including packaging material, was recovered from the possession of Opera Pegu, wife of Totong Pegu. Police said the contraband was weighed, seized, packed and sealed in accordance with legal procedures. The entire operation was videographed to ensure transparency and compliance with due process. The accused was taken into custody and the seized substance handed over to the concerned police station for further legal action. Accordingly, a case, SOY/PS/C/No. 08/26, has been registered under Section 20(b)(ii)(B) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and further investigation is underway. East Siang Superintendent of Police Pankaj Lamba commended the police team for the successful operation and reiterated the district police’s zero-tolerance policy towards drug-related offences. He also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and share information on illicit activities, stressing that community participation is crucial in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.

REGIONAL

Manipur can only progress when all 36 communities of state develop together: CM Khemchand Singh

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IMPHAL : Singh on Saturday said the state can progress only when all 36 communities living in the hills and valley develop together, stressing the need for inclusive and balanced growth. Speaking at a special interactive session with beneficiaries of the post-matric scholarship (ST) scheme organised by the department of tribal affairs and hills under Janjatiya Garima Utsav 2026 in Imphal, Singh said the scholarship programme aims to promote equality and uplift all communities. Expressing concern over reports that some students had not received scholarship payments for the past four months, the chief minister said the funds had already been released and that delays in certain cases were due to issues related to Aadhaar and bank account linkage. The CM said education plays a crucial role in shaping the future of young people and reiterated that the government remains committed to addressing genuine difficulties faced by students and ensuring that welfare schemes reach the intended beneficiaries. Singh also emphasised that Manipur can progress only when all 36 communities living in the hills and valley develop together and stressed the need for inclusive and balanced development across the state. Highlighting the importance of peace, Singh said development can take place only in a peaceful and conducive environment. He noted that students and daily wage earners are among those most affected during periods of unrest and emphasised that peace through dialogue is the only solution. He also appealed to students to contribute towards strengthening harmony and understanding among different communities. Speaking on the occasion via video conferencing, Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen said the programme highlighted the importance of education in empowering tribal youth and shaping a better future. She also said the government of Manipur remains committed to supporting students in their educational journey. Students from Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts also participated in the interaction via video conferencing and shared their concerns and challenges. (Source: PTI)  

REGIONAL

Strict monitoring to be undertaken for timely completion of highway projects: Nagaland MP

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KOHIMA : Nagaland’s lone Lok Sabha MP, S Supongmeren Jamir, on Saturday said strict monitoring would be undertaken over the next four months to ensure the timely completion of national highway projects in the state, warning that contractors failing to meet deadlines would face action. Addressing a press conference at Congress Bhavan here, Jamir, also the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) president, said he inspected work on national highway stretches from Dimapur to Kohima, and Kohima to Jesami on May 28 and 29, to assess implementation, maintenance and safety standards of road projects executed by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). He said that while Nagaland’s difficult terrain and unpredictable monsoon posed natural challenges, contractors and executing agencies must be adequately prepared to deliver projects on schedule. Jamir said the inspection, conducted along with district administrations, NHIDCL officials and contractors, focused particularly on road safety measures, drainage maintenance and construction quality. He pointed out that road safety infrastructure from the Assam border to Kohima, including signage and dividers, was found to be below NHIDCL standards. He said NHIDCL had been asked to strictly enforce its guidelines and ensure that contractors maintain the same standards as seen in other states. On maintenance issues, he said blocked drainage systems and neglect after road construction had contributed to road damage, and contractors had been directed to clear such areas within stipulated timelines. Referring to the Dimapur-Kohima stretch, Jamir expressed concern over poorly planned road dividers, saying some had been constructed without proper approval and adequate safety assessment, contributing to accidents. He said any road divider or access opening must be approved by competent NHIDCL authorities with proper signage. Jamir said that most highway stretches under NHIDCL are expected to be completed this year, except the Kohima bypass road, which may take another two years due to bridge construction requirements and land disputes. The MP raised concern over theft of aluminium crash barriers and road signage, terming it a serious threat to public safety. He also noted that illegal mining activities had blocked roads at over 35 locations. During his visit to Phek district on Friday, Jamir inspected the BSF Camp to Chakhabama stretch and said repair and maintenance works had been assured within 20 days. Jamir said weekly monitoring would be undertaken over the next four months in coordination with district administrations to ensure that contractors fulfil their commitments. (Source: PTI)    

REGIONAL

Tripura: CBI court sentences three executives of chit fund firm to 6 yr RI for duping 800 depositors

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AGARTALA : A special CBI court in Tripura on Saturday sentenced three executives of a chit fund company to six years of rigorous imprisonment each for swindling Rs 5.5 crore from over 800 depositors, a lawyer said. The special CBI judge, Debasish Kar, also asked the Unakoti district magistrate to attach the properties of Pragatishil Infra Project Services Private Ltd to pay the duped depositors. The Pragatishil Infra Project Services Private Ltd, a chit fund company, started its operations in Tripura’s Unakoti district in 2009 and collected a huge amount from people, assuring “good returns” after maturity, the lawyer said. “However, the company stopped paying the depositors concerned even after maturity (in 2012). Angry depositors then lodged an FIR against the company at Kailashar police station. “After conducting a probe, the CBI submitted a charge sheet against three company executives — Arindam Das (CMD), Dwipsikha Das (Administrative Director) and Paritosh Das (MD) — in a court at Kailashahar, Unakoti district,” Special CBI public prosecutor, Prasenjit Saha, told reporters. He said that during the trial, the court found the three executives of the firm guilty of misappropriating Rs 5.5 crore from around 800 depositors. “The special CBI court in Agartala today pronounced the verdict, sentencing the three company executives to six years of rigorous imprisonment each under the Tripura Protection of Interests of Depositors (in Financial Establishments) Act, 2000,” he said. Saha said the court has also asked the Unakoti district magistrate to attach the chit fund company’s properties and return the money to the duped depositors. (Source: PTI)    

National, REGIONAL

Kuki groups seek separate administration, probe into violence in Manipur

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NEW DELHI : Kuki organisations on Saturday demanded a separate administration for the Kuki-Zo people and impartial investigations into the recent clashes in Manipur, asserting that the community has faced decades of displacement, violence and constitutional marginalisation. In a statement issued at a press conference in Delhi, the Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) Delhi and NCR and other Kuki representatives said the demands were part of a broader call for justice, security and a political solution to the ongoing crisis in the northeastern state. The groups called for enforcement of Article 371C and restoration of the constitutional role of the Hill Areas Committee, alleging that administrative powers over hill villages had been transferred to valley-based authorities in violation of constitutional safeguards. They claimed that 462 hill villages had been brought under valley-based revenue jurisdiction, 192 hill villages placed under valley police stations and valley sub-registrar offices exercised jurisdiction over hill lands. The groups also renewed their demand for a formal inquiry into the 1992-93 violence involving the NSCN-IM, alleging that more than 1,000 Kuki civilians were killed and over 360 villages destroyed during the period. “There has never been a full accounting,” the statement said, demanding rehabilitation and justice for affected families. Referring to the ethnic violence that erupted in Manipur in May 2023, the Kuki representatives alleged large-scale destruction and displacement of the community. They claimed that thousands of homes and over 200 churches and places of worship had been damaged or destroyed and more than 41,000 people displaced. The KSO Delhi and NCR also expressed concern over the continued detention of 14 Kuki-Zo individuals allegedly held by Manipur Naga groups in Senapati district and demanded their “safe, immediate and unconditional release”. The organisation urged the Government of India and central security agencies to intervene decisively and initiate criminal proceedings against those responsible for the alleged abductions. The Kuki groups strongly condemned the killing of three Thadou-Kuki church leaders on May 13, alleging that the attack was carried out by the ZUF (Kamson faction), which they described as a proxy of the NSCN-IM. The KSO said no arrests had been made despite public outrage and demanded a fair and time-bound investigation by central agencies. The organisations further alleged renewed violence in parts of Ukhrul and Kamjong districts this year, including attacks on villages, killings and displacement. Calling for a long-term political settlement, the KSO urged the Centre to expedite dialogue with Suspension of Operations (SoO) groups representing the Kuki-Zo people and work towards what it described as an “honourable, constitutional and lasting political solution”. The groups maintained that the Kuki-Zo people were not seeking “sympathy or special favour” but justice, constitutional protection and security. “We are demanding justice, equal protection under the Constitution, security and the fundamental right to live with dignity and peace,” the KSO said in its statement. (Source: PTI)      

Editorial

A pause for ecological balance

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In the Central government’s decision not to permit new hydro-electricity projects in the upper reaches of the river Ganga, there is a welcome recognition of ecological realities in the Himalayas. Three central ministries – handling environment, water, and power – told the Supreme Court, in an affidavit, that the government was not in favour of sanctioning new projects on the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers in Uttarakhand. They cited the region’s ecological vulnerabilities, disaster risks, and religious significance as reasons that prompted the decision. However, the government proposes to complete the seven ongoing projects in the region. So far, it has backed multiple infrastructure projects while ignoring credible ecological concerns. Some of them, including the Char Dham project, have run into opposition over their adverse impact on the terrain. Infrastructure projects in the region have been defended on the grounds of national security requirements, promotion of pilgrimage and tourism, power production, and flood control. Now, after multiple disasters, the government appears to have partially acknowledged the urgency in securing the region’s ecological balance. In 2013, the Kedarnath floods showed the world the pent-up, destructive force of Himalayan nature. Since then, the region has experienced multiple landslides, cloudbursts, and subsidence in both urban and rural areas, and on highways. Glacial retreats, caused mainly by climate change but also aggravated by human intervention in nature, have led to major disasters and altered the topography of many areas along the Himalayan stretch. In 2023, a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in north Sikkim washed away a hydroelectric project on the river Teesta. Apprehensions regarding hydropower projects underway on the Ganga basin have been placed before the Supreme Court since the 2013 flash floods. The government’s affidavit was in response to a Court directive seeking a status report of the projects. The principle behind the Central government’s change in stance should apply to other projects under construction or consideration in the Himalayan states. The projects being planned in the eastern Himalayan region on the rivers Teesta, Siang, and Dibang have attracted criticism. India has proposed a mega hydroelectricity transmission plan centred on the strategically critical Brahmaputra. Geologists and environmentalists have repeatedly expressed concern not only over the massive construction activity but also over the expansion of human settlements. Notably, this is a region that lacks a comprehensive ecological plan. It should be prioritised, ensuring that its framework covers all construction activity, both in the fragile ranges and the lower regions. (Source: DH)    

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Arunachal to set up four panels on ST status, ILP and infiltration

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ITANAGAR : Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday said the state government has decided to constitute four high-powered committees to re-verify APST certificates, examine the non-APST offspring issue, strengthen the ILP framework and check infiltration. The decision was taken after discussions with the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF), community-based organisations (CBOs), the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU), the ST Bachao Andolan Committee, government officials and legal experts on the four key demands raised by the ST Bachao Andolan, Khandu said after the meeting. “Formation of four high-powered committees has been agreed upon today,” the chief minister said in a post on X. He added that the panels would examine the issues and recommend suitable measures. The CM further informed that official notifications constituting the committees would be issued by Monday. The decision follows a series of consultations between the state government and various stakeholders, including an eight-hour-long meeting chaired by Khandu on May 27 and another consultative session held at the civil secretariat here on Friday. Khandu said each committee would be led by a cabinet minister and include representatives from AITF, AAPSU, the ST Bachao Andolan Committee, legal experts, research scholars and women representatives to ensure a balanced, inclusive and action-oriented process. The four committees will separately re-verify the Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe (APST) certificates, issues concerning non-APST offspring, strengthening of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) framework, including a review of the ILP Guidelines 2026, and concerns relating to infiltration. During the meeting, stakeholders and government representatives agreed to continue the dialogue process, with another round of discussions scheduled for Monday. The committees have been given an initial timeframe of six months to submit their recommendations, though the period may be extended depending on the outcome of field studies and stakeholder consultations, officials said. To ensure regular monitoring of the exercise, three review meetings will be held under the chairmanship of the chief minister during the course of the committees’ work. The move comes amid sustained demands from indigenous groups for stronger implementation of the ILP regime and resolution of long-pending concerns related to tribal identity, demographic changes and the status of different communities in the state. (Source: PTI)      

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Arunachal CEO reviews preparedness for June 18 RS polls

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ITANAGAR : Arunachal Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Pawan Kumar Sain on Friday reviewed preparations for the upcoming biennial election to the Rajya Sabha and directed officials to ensure all arrangements are in place for a smooth, transparent and efficient electoral process. Chairing a coordination meeting at Nirvachan Bhawan here, with officials of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Information and Public Relations (IPR) department, Sain outlined the election schedule and key responsibilities of various departments, an official statement said. He said that polling for the lone Rajya Sabha seat from the state will be held on June 18 and the election process will be completed by June 20. The CEO said the election is being conducted as the term of one Rajya Sabha member representing Arunachal Pradesh is due to expire on June 23. Sain said that the notification for the election will be issued on June 1, while the last date for filing nominations is June 8. Scrutiny of nominations will take place on June 9 and candidates can withdraw their nominations till June 11. Polling will be conducted from 9 am to 4 pm on June 18, followed by counting of votes at 5 pm on the same day, he said. Sain said that the secretary of the Legislative Assembly has been appointed as the Returning Officer and the Deputy Secretary as the Assistant Returning Officer. The relevant notifications will be published in the Extraordinary Gazette of the state on June 1. During the meeting, officials finalised a series of measures to ensure the smooth conduct of the election. The Returning Officer was directed to ensure proper maintenance of the electoral college list, make arrangements for polling and counting personnel, and coordinate logistics, accommodation and security for election observers. The CEO also reviewed arrangements for ballot boxes, printing of ballot papers, voting compartments and custody of election materials. Officials were told that only prescribed violet sketch pens supplied by the Returning Officer would be used for marking preferences on ballot papers. To ensure officials are fully prepared, the CEO’s office will organise a training programme for the Returning Officer, Assistant Returning Officer and polling and counting personnel on June 5. A mock drill at the state Legislative Assembly will also be conducted to familiarise polling teams with election-day procedures. As part of measures to enhance transparency, live webcasting of the polling process will be carried out, and video footage of the proceedings will be submitted to the Election Commission within the prescribed timeline. The meeting further decided that the IPR Department would coordinate publicity related to candidates’ criminal antecedents and political parties, while Doordarshan Kendra would assist in disseminating election-related information and publicity in accordance with Election Commission guidelines. The Returning Officer will also coordinate with police authorities to ensure adequate security arrangements at polling and counting venues. The meeting was attended by Joint Chief Electoral Officer Liken Koyu, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Shania Kayem Mize and officials from the Legislative Assembly, IPR Department and Doordarshan Kendra. During the interaction, Sain also briefed participants on the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of Electoral Rolls aimed at including all eligible voters while removing ineligible entries from the rolls. He described the IPR department, Doordarshan and All India Radio as key partners in promoting transparency, voter awareness and public confidence in the electoral process and urged them to designate nodal officers for effective coordination with the CEO’s office. (Source: PTI)  

Latest News, Popular News, State News

NCW chief calls for coordinated action to strengthen women’s safety in Arunachal

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ITANAGAR : NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar on Friday urged greater awareness, sensitivity, and coordinated action among stakeholders to strengthen women’s safety and access to justice in Arunachal Pradesh. Addressing a two-day awareness and training programme for protection officers, one-stop centre (OSC) personnel, counsellors, and other officials here, Rahatkar said many women continue to suffer in silence due to social pressure, financial dependency and lack of awareness about their rights. “Incidents of domestic violence often remain hidden within homes, making the role of protection officers and support systems even more critical,” she said, stressing that frontline institutions must be equipped to provide timely support and relief. The National Commission for Women (NCW) chief underlined the importance of legal literacy for officials engaged in women-centric services, and urged comprehensive knowledge of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, the POCSO Act and other related laws. “Without adequate understanding of these laws, it will be difficult to provide effective relief and justice to women in distress,” she said. Pointing to the geographical challenges of the state, the NCW chief said Arunachal Pradesh’s remote and hilly terrain requires stronger institutional mechanisms and better-trained personnel so that women in every corner of the state can access justice and support services. Describing the training as more than a formal event, she said it aimed to strengthen the capacity, knowledge and effectiveness of OSCs, protection officers and associated departments. She called for stronger coordination among the women and child development department, state commission for women, police, legal services authorities, district administrations and all related institutions to ensure a comprehensive and timely response to women in crisis. Rahatkar stressed the need for an improved crisis response mechanism, warning that delays in handling cases can lead to severe consequences. She encouraged the sharing of practical experiences and best practices among officials and suggested forming dedicated communication groups for counsellors, case workers, medical support staff and protection officers to facilitate better coordination and learning. Reaffirming the commitment of the state women’s commission towards safety, protection, rehabilitation and empowerment of women, she urged institutions to become more sensitive, responsive and accountable so that survivors can approach the justice system with confidence. The programme, organised by the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women in collaboration with the NCW, covered legal provisions, protection mechanisms, mental health and inter-departmental coordination. Technical sessions included a presentation by Yakang Nani, State Mission Coordinator, SHEW, WCD department, on OSC objectives, functions and responsibilities. APSCW counsellor Dr Leeyir Ete spoke on mental health and the importance of counselling support, while additional SP and SDPO Naharlagun Rishi Longdo highlighted the role of police in supporting survivors and coordinating with OSCs. Techi Nech, panel advocate of Arunachal Pradesh State Legal Services Authority, elaborated on legal aspects, including domestic violence and the POCSO Act. Dr Pallavi Boro, associate professor, conducted a session on reproductive health and menstrual hygiene. The two-day programme concluded with active participation from stakeholders, officials and OSC personnel, reaffirming collective commitment towards women’s safety and welfare in the state. (Source: DIPR/PTI)