In Arunachal Pradesh, social activist Toko Sheetal has kicked off her campaign across Upper Subansiri and Kamle districts, emerging as a formidable contender against Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. As the GSP Gan Suraksha Party candidate for the Arunachal West Parliamentary constituency, Sheetal embarks on a whirlwind tour spanning over 11 districts, rallying support from diverse segments of society. In Daporijo town, the nerve center of Upper Subansiri district, Sheetal is greeted by thousands of enthusiastic supporters, predominantly from humble backgrounds, who willingly offer their backing to the “iron Lady” of Arunachal.
Sheetal’s journey into the political arena is marked by her steadfast activism, notably spearheading the “Delhi Chalo” movement on foot against corruption in Arunachal Pradesh in September 2022. Her decision to contest the Arunachal West parliamentary seat signifies a challenge to the incumbent, Kiren Rijiju, with a vision for transformative governance and fresh perspectives.
Filing her nomination under the GSP Gan Suraksha party banner in West Siang district’s Aalo, Sheetal asserts her commitment to bring about meaningful change. Reflecting on her past activism and the resonance it found within Arunachal politics, Sheetal addresses the media with unwavering confidence. “There is no competition at all; all ground is empty. The people of Arunachal support my candidature as the new MP from Arunachal West, and I will emerge as the winner, rendering others mere jesters in the political game,” she said.
