The Arunachal Democratic Party (ADP) formally merged with the Indian National Congress (INC) on Monday, with its president, office-bearers, and members joining the party en masse at an induction ceremony in Arunachal Pradesh.
ADP president Tami Pangu said the decision was rooted in ideological conviction and a shared commitment to democracy, secularism, and constitutional values. He described the merger as more than a political realignment, calling it an effort to strengthen democratic institutions and safeguard governance principles.
“This is not merely a political shift but an ideological alignment to protect constitutional governance,” Pangu said, adding that the party would continue raising key issues affecting the state under the Congress platform.
The development will not alter the numerical strength of the Congress in the state Assembly, as the ADP does not currently hold any seats. The Congress presently has one legislator in the House.
Members of the ADP were welcomed into the party fold by Bosiram Siram, president of the Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), in the presence of senior state leaders and party functionaries. Siram assured the newly inducted members of equal responsibility and opportunity within the party structure, calling the merger a significant step in strengthening the organization at the grassroots level.
Pangu outlined several issues that the former ADP leaders plan to pursue within the Congress framework. These include a review of Article 371(H), concerns related to hydropower projects, and alleged illegal mining activities in the state. He also raised broader challenges such as unemployment, inflation, corruption, and what he termed the weakening of institutions, describing them as indicators of a governance crisis requiring urgent corrective action.
The leaders expressed gratitude to former chief minister Gegong Apang for providing them with a political platform in the past. They also acknowledged the leadership of Mallikarjun Kharge, president of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. Siram’s role in strengthening the Congress’s opposition stance against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Arunachal Pradesh was cited as a key factor influencing their decision.
Describing the mass induction as a “new chapter” in the state’s political landscape, the newly joined members pledged to work towards people-centric governance, transparency, and inclusive development.
The merger is seen as part of ongoing political realignments in the state, as parties seek to consolidate support and redefine their strategies ahead of future electoral contests.
