Tensions intensified across the capital region of Arunachal Pradesh on Friday after a 36-hour shutdown called by the ST Bachao Andolan Committee (STBAC) escalated into unrest, leading to clashes between protesters and security personnel in Itanagar. The bandh, which remained in force until 5 pm, severely disrupted daily life in the Itanagar Capital Region, affecting transport, businesses, and public movement. Large groups of protesters reportedly marched from Naharlagun towards Itanagar, raising slogans and demanding the immediate release of detained STBAC leaders, including chairman Sol Dodum, general secretary Millo Ambo, activist Tana Tamar, and several others.
As the crowd advanced through Papu Nallah, the number of protesters continued to grow. At the 6 Mile area between Papu Nallah and Itanagar, security forces attempted to stop the march using barricades. However, protesters reportedly overwhelmed the deployed personnel and continued moving toward the capital city. Amid mounting pressure, authorities later released the detained leaders. The decision was confirmed by Mama Natung and Itanagar Capital Region Deputy Commissioner Toko Babu.
Later, Sol Dodum arrived at the 6 Mile area and attempted to calm the protesters by informing them that Millo Ambo and Tana Tamar had already been released from Tezu district jail and were returning to Itanagar.
However, tensions remained high as some protesters allegedly confronted Dodum and threw stones at him. The situation soon turned violent, with a section of the crowd reportedly attacking the Itanagar police station by pelting stones. Security forces responded by firing tear gas shells and blank rounds to disperse the mob and restore order.
In another dramatic development, a video featuring Millo Ambo and Tana Tamar was shown to protesters, in which both leaders claimed they had been released and were travelling back safely. However, some demonstrators reportedly rejected the video, suspecting it may have been generated using artificial intelligence technology.
The unrest continued as protesters blocked National Highway 415 at C Sector, insisting that the blockade would remain in place until both leaders safely reached Itanagar. Many protesters later gathered at Indira Gandhi Park while awaiting their arrival.
Additional disturbances were also reported near the Civil Secretariat gate before security personnel eventually brought the situation under control.
The ST Bachao Andolan Committee has been demanding stricter implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in the state and has also called for the removal of alleged illegal immigrants and Tibetan refugees from the region. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely amid concerns over further escalation in the state capital region.
