The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has called upon the people of the state to ensure that the upcoming Panchayati Raj and Municipal Elections–2025 are conducted in a free, fair, transparent and peaceful manner, in keeping with the Constitution of India. In a detailed statement issued ahead of the elections, the APCC said the right to vote is one of the most important rights given to citizens under the Constitution. It said universal adult franchise is the foundation of India’s democratic system and must be protected at all costs. The party stressed that every eligible voter should be allowed to cast their vote freely, without fear or pressure, and in a fair environment. Reiterating its commitment to democratic values, the APCC said elections must follow the principle of “One Person, One Vote, One Value.” It strongly opposed practices such as impersonation, proxy voting or substitute voting, stating that such acts weaken the credibility of the electoral process and damage public trust in democracy.
The Congress unit also urged election authorities, including Municipal Election Returning Officers, District Election Officers and the State Election Commissioner, to take all necessary steps to ensure smooth and peaceful polling. It called for adequate deployment of police personnel, especially at sensitive and vulnerable polling stations, to maintain law and order and protect voters. Appealing to all political parties, candidates and their supporters, the APCC asked everyone to strictly follow the Model Code of Conduct, election laws and instructions issued by the State Election Commission. It warned that intimidation of voters, misuse of government machinery, inducements, threats, coercion, or the spread of misinformation would amount to serious violations of democratic and constitutional norms.
The APCC also highlighted the importance of Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies, calling them the backbone of local self-governance. It said elections to these bodies must uphold their dignity, autonomy and credibility, and should reflect constitutional morality and democratic procedures. Calling for peace and restraint, the party appealed to all stakeholders to maintain harmony and political maturity throughout the election process. It said political differences should be resolved through democratic means and not through violence, fear or provocation.
