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ICR On High Alert Ahead Of ASTBAC’s Proposed 72-Hour Bandh In Arunachal Pradesh

  • By Thetripurapost Desk, Itanagar
  • May 23, 2026
  • 89

Security has been significantly tightened across the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) ahead of the proposed 72-hour bandh called by the Arunachal ST Bachao Andolan Committee (ASTBAC), with authorities anticipating possible law and order disturbances during the protest period.

The district administration has initiated large-scale deployment preparations by requisitioning several government buildings and public facilities to accommodate security personnel arriving from different districts, specialized police units, neighboring states, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).

The development comes amid escalating tensions over demands related to the inner line permit system, APST certificate verification, and Tibetan refugee documentation in Arunachal Pradesh.

Massive Security Deployment Planned In Itanagar

According to official sources, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Capital Itanagar, acted following a request from the Additional Superintendent of Police seeking logistical support for incoming forces tasked with maintaining peace and public order during the bandh.

Massive Security Deployment Planned In Itanagar

According to official sources, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Capital Itanagar, acted following a request from the Additional Superintendent of Police seeking logistical support for incoming forces tasked with maintaining peace and public order during the bandh.

Deputy Commissioner Toko Babu issued an order stating that the requisitioned facilities would remain under the control of the Superintendent of Police, Itanagar, from May 24 until deployment duties are completed.

Facilities Requisitioned For Security Personnel

The administration has identified several locations for accommodation and operational coordination, including:

  • Parking lot of APST Station
  • Parking lot near GHSS Itanagar
  • Auditorium of DNGC Itanagar
  • Sports Auditorium at IG Park
  • Block E and F of the BPL Building at Zoo Road
  • Open Gallery Room at IG Park

Authorities have directed all departments and officials concerned to provide complete support to the police administration and deployed forces.

ASTBAC Demands Stronger ILP Mechanism

The proposed bandh has been called by ASTBAC over several contentious issues, including:

  • Implementation of a foolproof Inner Line Permit (ILP) mechanism
  • Strict verification of Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe (APST) certificates
  • Transparency regarding Tibetan refugee family records in the state

ASTBAC chairman Sol Dodum and general secretary Millo Ambo warned that failure by the state government to address the demands within the stipulated deadline could result in a statewide shutdown lasting between 72 and 96 hours.

The committee has also rejected proposals for talks with state Home Minister Mama Natung and insisted that discussions must be held directly with Chief Minister Pema Khandu.

Earlier Bandh Witnessed Clashes In Capital Region

Authorities are particularly cautious after the earlier 36-hour bandh in the capital region on May 14 witnessed partial closure of markets, educational institutions, and commercial establishments. Incidents of stone-pelting and clashes were also reported from certain areas during the agitation.

If the proposed bandh proceeds after the ultimatum period expires on May 24, major disruptions are expected across Arunachal Pradesh, including:

  • Closure of government offices
  • Shutdown of schools and colleges
  • Suspension of transport services
  • Disruption of commercial activities

The administration, however, has assured citizens that all necessary measures are being taken to maintain peace, ensure public safety, and keep essential services operational during the anticipated bandh.