Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR : The Save Arunachal Youth Association (SAYA) on Monday alleged that one-time lottery draws are being conducted illegally during the Dree Festival 2026 despite the enforcement of the Arunachal Pradesh Gambling (Prohibition) Act, 2012 and a directive issued by the Director General of Police (DGP) against such activities.

Addressing reporters at the Arunachal Press Club here, SAYA president Likha Rajnik clarified that the organisation is not opposed to the celebration of the Dree Festival but objects to the sale of one-time lottery tickets and gambling activities allegedly being carried out in the name of festivals.

Rajnik said the association has lodged a Zero First Information Report (FIR) at Naharlagun Police Station against the alleged illegal lottery draws planned during the Dree Festival and similar activities organised by various tribes, unions, organisations and societies across the state. The FIR seeks legal action against those allegedly violating the provisions of the Arunachal Pradesh Gambling (Prohibition) Act, 2012.

He said SAYA has also submitted a complaint to the DGP, following which written instructions were reportedly issued to Superintendents of Police (SPs) of all districts to initiate action against individuals and organisations found violating the Act.

Alleging widespread violations of the law, Rajnik claimed that several clans, unions, organisations and societies continue to sell lottery tickets under the guise of festivals and cultural events. He further alleged that such tickets are being openly displayed and sold across the state despite the government’s announcement to strictly enforce laws against illegal gambling and unauthorised lotteries.

Rajnik urged the state government to take stringent action against those involved in the sale and promotion of illegal lottery tickets and gambling activities, saying strict enforcement of the law is essential to curb such practices.