ZIRO : A high-level coordination meeting involving community organisations, public representatives, traditional institutions and district officials was held at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hall here on Tuesday to discuss measures for safeguarding the integrity of Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe (APST) certificates and strengthening enforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system.

The meeting underscored the need for a coordinated approach to protect indigenous rights, preserve local identity and ensure effective monitoring of entry into the district. It was informed that Ziro MLA Hage Appa would work closely with the district administration in addressing issues related to APST verification and ILP implementation through practical and transparent measures.

The meeting witnessed participation from representatives of several key community-based organisations, including the Tanw Supun Dukun (TSD), Apatani Women Association Ziro (AWAZ), Apatani Youth Association (AYA) and Apatani Students’ Union (ASU), who shared their views on the concerns and aspirations of the local community.

Traditional leaders, including Head Gaon Burahs, and Zilla Parishad Members from Niiti, Diibo, Hari and Tajang sectors also took part in the deliberations, highlighting the importance of community participation in ensuring effective implementation of regulations at the grassroots level.

Representatives of the Lower Subansiri Bar Association, ST Bachao Andolan Committee and local bazaar committees contributed legal and public-interest perspectives during the discussions.

Officials from the district administration and law enforcement agencies also attended the meeting, which focused on evolving a collaborative framework for protecting tribal rights and strengthening regulatory mechanisms in the district.

Participants emphasised the importance of collective responsibility and community cooperation in preserving the region’s socio-cultural identity while ensuring strict adherence to existing laws and regulations. (DIPR)