Arunachal: ASTBAC issues seven-day ultimatum to govt, warns of 72-hour bandh
By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: The Arunachal Scheduled Tribes Bachao Andolan Committee (ASTBAC) on Sunday issued a seven-day deadline to the state government, warning that it may launch a 72-hour statewide bandh if its demands are not met.
ASTBAC chairman Sol Dodum said the agitation would intensify if the government failed to respond within the deadline, adding that a statewide shutdown would follow.
The committee is pressing for a stronger and more effective Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, arguing that the existing mechanism is weak and fails to protect indigenous communities from illegal immigration.
It has also demanded verified records or “family tree” documentation of Tibetan refugees settled in the state, claiming that the current ILP framework suffers from corruption and loopholes at both administrative offices and entry checkpoints.
ASTBAC general secretary Millo Ambo criticised the government’s ILP reform plan, saying it highlights only positive aspects while ignoring key shortcomings. He also questioned the authority for allowing temporary ILP approvals for any location, warning that such provisions could be misused.
He further stated that strict safeguards must be introduced to prevent misuse of ILP powers, adding that provisions allowing extensions for mega project-related permits of up to two years also need closer scrutiny.
The committee said it would not attend the meeting called by Home Minister Mama Natung on Monday, but added that it remains open to talks with the Chief Minister. According to Dodum, any meaningful dialogue should be initiated by the Chief Minister himself.
ASTBAC also announced a three-day online public petition campaign starting Sunday evening. The findings will be compiled and submitted to the government, which will then be given four days to act on the matter.
Dodum stated that the 72-hour capital shutdown should not be seen as a politically driven move. He attributed the situation to what he described as poor handling by the state administration, especially the Home Department.
He further alleged that the unrest escalated after authorities forced the reopening of markets, which, according to him, triggered public anger and led to violence.
He also said it was unfortunate that police personnel, journalists, and government officials were injured and faced abusive behaviour during the protest period.