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Staff Reporter NIRJULI, OCT 13: The Public Rights Action Committee (PRAC) on Tuesday staged a peaceful rally from Papu Nallah to Nirjuli, demanding a lasting solution to the prolonged delay in construction of the Papu Nallah–Nirjuli stretch of NH-415 and the deteriorating condition of the Bage Tinali–Doimukh road. Reiterating its charter of demands, the committee questioned the continued delay in completing the crucial highway project and sought a written commitment from the state government specifying a deadline for completion of the remaining work. In a memorandum submitted to the Public Works Department (PWD) minister, PRAC highlighted the deteriorating condition of NH-415, including the Bage Tinali–Doimukh stretch, stating that commuters, students, patients and business owners had been bearing the brunt of incomplete road construction and poor maintenance. The committee pointed out that Chief Minister Pema Khandu had reportedly assured on October 2 that NH-415 Package-A would be completed within six months. It demanded a similar assurance for Package-B, backed by a definite completion deadline and a transparent monitoring mechanism. The committee also demanded the immediate filling of potholes, removal of construction debris, repair of damaged stretches and improvement of drainage facilities until permanent roadwork is completed. It further called for a time-bound public grievance redressal mechanism, proposing that complaints be promptly acknowledged and inspected, with necessary action initiated within three hours wherever feasible. Raising concerns over pedestrian safety, PRAC demanded mandatory footpaths along the highway, pointing out that students, elderly citizens and other pedestrians were being forced to walk on the main carriageway, exposing them to traffic hazards. The committee also sought restrictions on festivals, political programmes and other public gatherings along the highway, particularly on the Bage Tinali–Doimukh stretch, arguing that such activities further aggravated traffic congestion. It additionally demanded designated parking facilities for commercial establishments to prevent vehicles from occupying the highway and obstructing traffic movement. PRAC legal adviser Techi Rana maintained that the agitation was not intended to confront the government but to demand accountability and practical solutions to problems affecting the public. The committee urged the PWD to come up with a concrete action plan, clear deadlines and immediate measures to improve road conditions, stressing that commuters should not be left waiting indefinitely for a safe and properly maintained highway.  

CHETAM, OCT 13: The people of Dasi and Kare villages under Chetam Circle in Upper Subansiri district have imposed traditional restrictions on public movement for 10 days from October 13 to 23 to observe the indigenous Potor-Uyi ritual amid concerns over the reported spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) among domestic animals in the region. The ritual was performed on October 13 under the spiritual guidance of priest Pordin Kare. According to the customary beliefs and traditions of the Tagin community, Potor-Uyi is observed to seek protection for humans, domestic animals and wildlife against epidemics, contagious diseases and other perceived threats. It is also associated with collective well-being, agricultural prosperity, a good harvest and safe movement within the community’s customary jurisdiction. During the ritual period, restrictions have been imposed on unauthorised public movement and transportation through designated areas. Bursting firecrackers, creating loud explosive sounds, firing arms and ammunition, felling trees, hunting and fishing are also prohibited. The Sippi–Chetam Circle Headquarters Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) road, particularly the bottleneck stretch leading towards Dasi and Kare villages, will remain closed to normal public movement from 3 pm on October 13 until 3 am on October 23, when the restrictions are scheduled to end. In view of the temporary closure, people from the upper foothill regions and adjoining areas have been advised to make alternative travel arrangements. Residents of Jeke, Daru, Boging, Raga, Dadi, Hamriga, Rikung and Guha villages under Nilling Circle have been requested to use the Siga PMGSY route to Dayam village, and vice versa, for transporting essential ration supplies and attending to medical emergencies. The village authorities have appealed to residents, visitors and neighbouring communities to respect the customary restrictions and cooperate with the organising committee to ensure the peaceful observance of the ritual. The traditional restrictions reflect the Tagin community’s customary practices and cultural heritage, which seek collective protection and well-being during perceived threats to human and animal life. The notice was issued by organising chairman Majak Bayor Neba and organising secretary Yow Dasi.  

KOLORIANG, OCT 13: The Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR), in collaboration with the Office of the Deputy Director (Women and Child Development)-cum-District Child Protection Officer, conducted a two-day child rights awareness programme in Koloriang on October 12 and 13 under its District Child Rights Outreach Programme. The first day’s programme was held at the conference hall of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, featuring awareness sessions and an interactive question-and-answer session. Additional Deputy Commissioner Tage Tatung attended as the chief guest, while Kurung Kumey Superintendent of Police P N Thongdok and Lower Koloriang Zilla Parishad Member Bengia Pake attended as guests of honour and special guest, respectively. Officials from various departments, school principals and headmasters, students, health workers, Gaon Panchayat Chairpersons and Members, Gaon Burahs, members of the Arunachal Pradesh Women’s Welfare Society, self-help groups, and representatives of the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) and Child Welfare Committee (CWC) participated in the programme. Deputy Director (ICDS) Tasso Asha delivered the welcome address, while APSCPCR member Niri Chongrowju delivered the keynote address. The ADC, SP and ZPM also addressed the gathering. Advocate Mili Raja spoke on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Juvenile Justice Act. Advocate Nangram Biju addressed the Right to Education, child marriage and child labour, while Inspector Takhe Tasso highlighted online safety, cyberbullying, internet and gaming addiction, and online fraud. APSCPCR member Taba Champa Riba spoke on drug and substance abuse, mental and emotional well-being, and bullying in schools and other institutions. An interactive session with students and teachers followed, and Child Development Project Officer (CDPO), Sarli, Tei Hempu delivered the vote of thanks. On the second day, the Commission’s team visited Bonglia Anganwadi Centre under the Koloriang Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Project to review its infrastructure, examine Poshan Tracker records and interact with children and parents to assess the services provided. At Chera Talo District Hospital, the team reviewed facilities for child healthcare and enquired about the functioning of the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) and services provided by Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs). The team also obtained feedback from the medical superintendent, doctors and nurses and shared suggestions for improvement. The team subsequently visited PM SHRI Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) and Koloriang Public School to interact with students and staff and assess infrastructure and other facilities. It also inspected Koloriang Police Station and the under-construction Women Police Station, reviewing inmate cells, the Child Care Room and the Legal Aid Room, besides interacting with police personnel. The outreach concluded with a visit to the One Stop Centre, which also functions as a fit facility for Children in Need of Care and Protection (CNCP). The team inspected the rooms and interacted with the staff as part of its review of child protection and support facilities in the district.  

Mingkeng Osik PASIGHAT, OCT 13: Arunachal Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Kaling Moyong on Tuesday inaugurated the new building of Sri Sri Anandamoyee Kalibari (Kali Mandir) at High Region, Pasighat, in the presence of devotees and community members. Speaking on the occasion, Moyong, a former MLA, extended his greetings and best wishes to residents and devotees ahead of the upcoming Durga Puja and Kali Puja celebrations. He said the construction was supported under the Social Infrastructure Development Fund (SIDF) for the 2023–24 financial year during his tenure as MLA. He appreciated the temple committee and local residents for their efforts in developing the infrastructure and also highlighted the provision of drinking water facilities for devotees and visitors. Describing Pasighat as a “Mini India”, Moyong highlighted the town’s religious and cultural diversity, noting that people from different communities live together in peace and mutual respect. He cited the presence of a Gurudwara, Sri Sri Anandamoyee Kalibari, Balaji Mandir, churches, a mosque and the Kachari Community Mathou Mandir as examples of the town’s inclusive character. He emphasised that respect for different faiths and traditions strengthens community bonds and promotes lasting peace and harmony. Meanwhile, the Sri Sri Anandamoyee Kalibari Committee, High Region, Pasighat, is preparing for the upcoming Durga Puja, Lakshmi Puja and Kali Puja celebrations. The committee is headed by Dr Shaibal Bhattacharjee as president, with patrons and other members supporting its activities. The committee and community members expressed gratitude to Moyong and all those who contributed to the development of the temple infrastructure. The new building is expected to improve facilities for devotees while reflecting Pasighat’s tradition of religious diversity and peaceful coexistence.          

PANGIN, OCT 13: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Siang, conducted the second day of its 20-hour mediation training programme for Gaon Burahs (GBs) and Gaon Buris (GBis) from various villages of the district at the Community Hall, Pangin, on Tuesday. The programme, held under the guidance of DLSA Siang Secretary Bido Sora, aims to strengthen the role of traditional village authorities in promoting peaceful and amicable dispute resolution at the community level. The sessions were led by advocates Dugmo Tali, Kani Tamut and Tapang Tabing, with support from Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs) and DLSA and court staff. The day focused on practical learning through role-play exercises and demonstrations. Participants took on the roles of mediators and observers to understand the mediation process, with emphasis on neutrality, fairness, effective communication and mutually acceptable settlements. A simulated mediation session was also conducted after lunch to demonstrate how mediators can listen to both parties, facilitate dialogue and help them reach an amicable resolution. The programme provided participants with practical skills to encourage peaceful dispute resolution within their respective communities.  

JANG, OCT 13: The Jang sub-divisional administration under the Tawang district administration organised a two-day capacity-building and skill development programme on October 12 and 13 at Nurangang Hall, Jang, to promote sustainable, safe and community-based tourism along the Jang–Mago–Chuna corridor. The programme was conducted under the supervision of Jang Additional Deputy Commissioner Hakraso Kri in collaboration with Roots and Wings, a registered society working in the fields of culture, community development, tourism and sustainable livelihoods. It was inaugurated by Mogto Zilla Parishad Member Pema Tsering on October 12. The training focused on hospitality, professional tour guiding, tourist safety, cleanliness and hygiene, digital marketing, online booking management and the preservation of local culture and Monpa traditions. It also aimed to equip local communities to tap emerging tourism opportunities, strengthen responsible tourism practices and create employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for local youth. A total of 70 participants from Jang, Mogto, Rho, Jangda, Lhou, Mago and Thingbu villages took part in the programme. Participants included homestay owners, hotel and lodge operators, taxi operators, aspiring tour guides, youth, self-help groups, tourism committees, handicraft and souvenir sellers, food vendors and local entrepreneurs. At the valedictory function, participants were awarded certificates by Thutan, BJP Mandal president of 3-Mogto Mandal, who attended as chief guest. A field visit scheduled for October 14 will provide participants with practical exposure to local tourism destinations and opportunities, reinforcing the principles of safe, sustainable and community-based tourism. The initiative seeks to strengthen grassroots participation in tourism and position the Jang–Mago–Chuna corridor as a responsible tourism destination while safeguarding its natural environment, cultural heritage and traditional way of life. (DIPR)