The Itanagar Capital Region experienced significant unrest on Monday as three major youth organizations—Indigenous Youth Force of Arunachal (IYFA), Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO), and All Naharlagun Youth Organisation (ANYO)—enforced a 12-hour shutdown. Their demands included the demolition of a mosque they claim is illegal in Naharlagun and the deportation of individuals they consider illegal migrants. Despite being declared “illegal and unlawful” by the district administration, the bandh proceeded, along with calls for a total ban on weekly markets, which they argue allow undocumented vendors to operate.
A strong police presence was deployed throughout key areas of the Capital Region to manage the situation. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chukhu Apa held a press briefing asserting that any disruption to public order would result in strict legal repercussions. He emphasized that measures were in place to ensure normalcy and urged protestors to avoid obstructive actions.
Reactions to the bandh varied widely; civil society and community organizations implored the youth groups to reconsider the protest, citing the hardships inflicted on commuters, daily wage workers, and students, particularly as elections are underway. Originally planned for November 25, the shutdown was postponed after the government had suggested a dialogue. However, a subsequent meeting intended for December 5 with the Home Minister was cancelled due to election commitments. This lack of progress in communication led the organizations to forge ahead with the December 9 shutdown.
APIYO president Taro Sonam Liyak affirmed that there would be no further postponements of the bandh, urging cooperation from businesses and the public. He also stated that the state government would be held accountable for any incidents arising from the protests.
Throughout the day, the shutdown had a partial effect on business operations and transportation, with a growing sense of unease among residents regarding the increasing tensions and the uncertain outcomes of the youth organizations’ demands.
