12-Hour Bandh in Arunachal Pradesh: Indigenous Organizations Protest Against Illegal Immigrants and Demand Mosque Removal

A previously scheduled bandh on November 25 was postponed due to ongoing festivals and sports competitions.

Itanagar:

Three local organizations in Arunachal Pradesh have called for a 12-hour bandh in the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) on Tuesday, voicing demands for the removal of a mosque and deportation of alleged illegal Bangladeshi immigrants from the state.

The Indigenous Youth Force of Arunachal (IYFA), the Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO), and the All Naharlagun Youth Organisation (ANYO) jointly announced the bandh focusing on three primary demands - the removal of the Capital Jama Masjid in Naharlagun, complete prohibition of weekly markets in the Capital Region, and deportation of individuals they claim are illegal Bangladeshi immigrants.

Inspector-General of Police (IGP) for Law & Order, Chukhu Apa, informed the media that "adequate security arrangements have been put in place" to maintain peace and prevent disturbances during the bandh, scheduled from 5 am to 5 pm.

The IGP urged bandh supporters to exercise restraint and express their concerns through democratic channels. He also cautioned that firm police action would be taken against anyone attempting to violate the law. "We will not tolerate unlawful activities or any form of coercion during the bandh," he stated. The bandh was announced for December 9, despite the district administration declaring the shutdown "illegal and unlawful".

Local civil organizations have requested the protest groups to reconsider their bandh, citing election timing and potential hardships for citizens.

APIYO President Taro Sonam Liyak previously reported that no incidents had been reported from Itanagar, as the three organizations proceeded with the first phase of the 12-hour bandh beginning at 5:00 am today.

The organizations stated that their concerns have been raised since October 6, but the government has taken no action. They claimed the government had promised a meeting on December 5, which never materialized. A previous bandh planned for November 25 was rescheduled due to festivals and sports events.

According to the organizations, their demands were submitted to numerous government offices, including the Chief Minister's Office, but received no response. They emphasized that this is not solely an APIYO bandh but a public and indigenous call for action, and appealed for support from the public, transport unions, and business communities.

The organizations have outlined several concerns, including the removal of allegedly illegal mosque construction, panja khana, action against unauthorized settlements, and closure of the daily market.

Essential services such as ambulances, milk supply, and students taking examinations will be exempted. Students are advised to carry their identification cards.

The groups stated that if any untoward incidents occur during the bandh, the government should bear responsibility.