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The Miao Times, Miao (2026)

07/02/2026

Life sentence awarded in 2008 Apang abduction case after 17-year legal battle

TMT | YUPIA | 7 February 2026: Bringing closure to one of Arunachal Pradesh’s most high-profile criminal cases, a district court in Yupia has sentenced Tahak Tatak to life imprisonment for his involvement in the 2008 abduction of former chief minister Gegong Apang’s son, Getem Apang.

District and Sessions Judge Dr Hirendra Kashyap found Tatak guilty under Sections 120B, 365 and 364(A) read with Section 34 of the Indian Penal Code, holding him responsible for criminal conspiracy, abduction and kidnapping for ransom. The verdict comes nearly 17 years after the crime that had sent shockwaves across the state.

The case dates back to June 18, 2008, when Getem Apang and his associate Narendra Rai were abducted at gunpoint from C-Sector, Itanagar, while returning from a music rehearsal. Their vehicle was intercepted, and the duo was first taken towards Hollongi before being shifted to remote jungle camps in Assam, where they were held captive for eight harrowing days.

Court records reveal that the kidnappers made repeated anonymous calls demanding a hefty ransom from Getem’s brother, Okeng Apang. The victims were eventually released on June 26, 2008, following coordinated security operations supported by technical surveillance.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) later established the involvement of the accused with elements linked to the banned outfit National Democratic Front of Boroland (NDFB). The prosecution relied on call detail records, witness testimonies and confessional statements to secure the conviction.

While co-accused Tapiam Tali and Aniram Basumatary died during the prolonged trial, proceedings continued against Tatak alone. Rejecting the defence’s plea for leniency, the court observed that offences under Section 364(A) IPC strike at the very core of public safety and governance.

Considering the long delay in the trial, the court awarded life imprisonment with a fine of ₹10,000, while informing the convict of his right to appeal before the Gauhati High Court.

The 2008 abduction remains a defining episode in the state’s criminal history, prompting one of the largest joint investigations involving Arunachal Pradesh and Assam police forces.

07/02/2026

Namsai Forest Division issues public advisory after wild elephants sighted near villages

TMT | NAMSAI | 7 February 2026: In the interest of public safety, the Namsai Forest Division has issued a public advisory following confirmed reports of the presence of wild elephants in and around Chesing Winko, Nongtaw and Piyong village areas. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to the safety guidelines to prevent any untoward incidents.

According to the advisory, the public has been advised not to venture out unnecessarily, particularly during night and early morning hours, when elephant movement is more frequent.

People have also been instructed to avoid forest fringes, agricultural fields and nearby water sources until further notice.

The Forest Division has categorically warned residents not to chase, provoke or attempt to approach the wild elephants under any circumstances.

In the event of an elephant sighting, villagers have been advised to maintain a safe distance and move away calmly without shouting or creating panic.

Special instructions have been issued for farmers, who have been advised not to guard their crops at night.

The advisory further stresses the need to keep elderly persons, children and livestock indoors, especially after sunset, to minimise risk.

Residents have also been asked to keep street lights and household lights switched on at night and refrain from entering forest areas for any purpose during this period.

Warning that failure to comply with the advisory could endanger life and property, the Namsai Forest Division has sought strict public cooperation to ensure safety and avoid any unfortunate incidents.

07/02/2026

Juvenile dies after alleged assault by teacher; public outrage erupts in Philobari

TMT | PHILOBARI | 7 February 2026:
A wave of shock, grief and anger swept through Philobari following the tragic death of a Class VIII student who allegedly succumbed to injuries after being assaulted by his teacher. The deceased juvenile has been identified as Utpal Taye, a student of Sankardev Shishu Niketan, Philobari.

According to sources, the incident occurred on Friday when Utpal was allegedly subjected to severe physical assault by his teacher, Sanjib Sharma, within the school premises. As Utpal’s condition deteriorated rapidly, he was rushed to Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH), Dibrugarh, for advanced medical treatment. Despite the efforts of doctors, the young student succumbed to his injuries at around midnight while undergoing treatment.

The tragic incident triggered spontaneous public protests in Philobari. Parents, relatives of students, and local residents poured onto the streets, demanding stringent punishment for the accused teacher and accountability from the school management.

Protesters alleged gross negligence and abuse of authority, raising serious concerns about the safety of children in educational institutions.

The TMPK, Tinsukia District Committee, has strongly condemned the incident, terming it an inhuman and barbaric act. The organisation has demanded an immediate, impartial and time-bound investigation, along with strict legal action against all those found responsible, including institutional authorities if lapses are established.

Addressing the angry gathering, Ajay Doley, Secretary of TMPK Tinsukia District, warned that such incidents must not be allowed to repeat. “Whether government sponsored or private, all educational institutions in the region must ensure that such heinous crimes never occur again.
Teachers are meant to guide and protect, not brutalise,” he said, while appealing to the public to continue the democratic movement until justice is delivered without delay.

The incident has reignited the debate on corporal punishment and child safety in schools, with citizens demanding stronger safeguards and zero tolerance towards violence against children.

06/02/2026

ED raids multiple locations over TAH compensation scam

TMT | AALO | 6 Feb 2026: In connection with the Potin-Bopi stretch of Trans - Arunachal Highway compensation scam, the Enforcement Directorate on Friday conducted raids in Aalo, Likabali, and the Itanagar Capital Region.

Raids were carried out at six locations, with four conducted in the ICR. In Aalo, a raid was conducted at the residence of former deputy commissioner Kemo Lollen, who was the DC of Lower Subansiri district when the scam rocked the state. ED officials also conducted raids targeting some of the alleged fake beneficiaries.

Sources, claimed that cash amounting to Rs 2.2 crore was recovered from one of the alleged fake beneficiaries.

The Potin-Bopi stretch of the TAH scam is being investigated by the Anti-Corruption Bureau. Several people, including senior government officials and fake beneficiaries, were arrested in the past in connection with the case. The raids are reportedly conducting by ED officials, along with a central paramilitary force from Guwahati.

05/02/2026

Young tigress shot dead in Mayudia

TMT | MAYUDIA | 5 February 2026: A sub-adult tigress, believed to be around two years old, was found shot dead in the Mayudia area of Lower Dibang Valley district on Wednesday night, just two days after a police head constable was killed in a suspected tiger attack in the same region.

Forest department teams deployed to capture the tigers discovered the carcass during their search operations. Sources said a bullet was recovered from the head of the tigress, indicating that the predator had been killed by gunshot. Officials suspect that a locally used kartus gun was used.

“We were laying traps to capture the tiger when we came across the body. The tigress was shot in the head, and the bullet appears to be from a kartus gun,” a forest official said.

The tigress was identified as a sub-adult and was part of a tiger family consisting of her mother and another sub-adult. According to officials, both young tigers had recently separated from their mother and became independent.

Following the incident, the environment, forest and climate change department has formed several teams and intensified field operations to track and capture the remaining tigers in the area.

LDV Deputy Commissioner Fwwrman Brahma confirmed that a wildlife offence report has been registered by the divisional forest officer (wildlife) under relevant provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act. He said legal action would follow once the investigation establishes the facts surrounding the killing.

The department has also constituted a special team to supervise the necropsy and disposal of the tigress’s carcass in accordance with the standard operating procedures of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

The necropsy team is headed by Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary DFO Mito Rumi and includes Itanagar Biological Park veterinary officer Dr Tadap Sorang, WTI CRBC senior veterinary surgeon Dr Panjit Basumatary, senior veterinary officer (Roing) Dr Subi Migri, veterinary officer (Roing) Dr Techi Ana, and honorary wildlife warden Ipra Mekola.

The killing of the tigress comes in the wake of the tragic death of head constable Chikseng Manpang, whose mutilated body was recovered on Tuesday morning after a search operation in the Mayudia area. Manpang was reportedly attacked by a tiger family on Monday evening, between 7 pm and 7.30 pm, while riding his motorcycle from Anini to Roing.

Manpang, a resident of Manfaiseng village in Namsai district, and was serving as a wireless telecom operator with the Arunachal Pradesh Police and was posted in Roing. He had been deputed to Anini for duty during the Cabinet Aapke Dwar programme and was returning when the fatal incident occurred.

05/02/2026

State Assembly clears three key amendment bills

TMT | ITANAGAR | 5 February 2026: The Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Thursday passed three important amendment bills through voice vote, a day after they were introduced in the House. The bills relate to the Panchayati Raj system, the Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board (APSSB), and decriminalisation of minor offences to promote trust-based governance.

Panchayati Raj Minister Ojing Tasing tabled the Arunachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Bill, while Chief Minister Pema Khandu introduced the Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board (Amendment) Bill. The Arunachal Pradesh Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill was introduced by Law, Legislative and Justice Minister Kento Jini.

According to the statement of objects and reasons, the Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Bill seeks to amend the Arunachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act, 1997. The bill aims to simplify administrative procedures, remove delays and procedural hurdles, and ensure smoother and more effective functioning of panchayati institutions across the state. The move is expected to strengthen grassroots governance and improve delivery of services at the village and local levels.

The Staff Selection Board (Amendment) Bill proposes amendments to two sections of the APSSB Act, 2018, recognising the crucial role of the chairperson and provides for a fixed tenure. It seeks to address problems caused by frequent transfers and postings of All India Service officers, which have disrupted the continuity and efficiency of the board’s work in the past.

The statement further explained that the amendment would allow the appointment of retired officers from organised services as chairperson. These officers, with their vast experience and ability to serve for longer uninterrupted periods, are expected to ensure smooth functioning of the APSSB and improve its overall performance in conducting recruitment processes.

The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill aims to amend certain existing laws to decriminalise and rationalise minor offences. The objective of the bill is to reduce unnecessary criminal provisions, promote trust-based governance, and improve the ease of living and doing business in Arunachal Pradesh.

With the passage of these three amendment bills, the state government hopes to strengthen local governance, ensure efficient recruitment mechanisms, and create a more citizen-friendly legal framework.

05/02/2026

Come One, Come All: Celebration Committee invites to the 42nd Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi, 2026

TMT | MIAO | 5 Feb 2026: Come one, come all, and be part of a living celebration of peace, harmony, and ancient heritage as the peace-loving and law-abiding Singpho community of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam warmly invites the world to the 42nd Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi.

From 12 to 15 February 2026, the picturesque town of Miao in Changlang district, nestled at the gateway of the eastern Himalayas, will transform into a vibrant canvas of colours, rhythms, traditions, and collective joy.

Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi is not merely a festival; it is the very soul of the Singpho people expressed through dance, music, rituals, and shared memories.

Celebrated with deep reverence and infectious enthusiasm, Manau Poi symbolizes unity, peace, prosperity, and the timeless bond between humans, nature, and the spiritual world.

Each beat of the drum, each graceful movement of the dancers, and each chant echoing through the valley tells stories passed down through generations, stories of resilience, dignity, and coexistence.

For four unforgettable days, men, women, elders, and youth dressed in exquisite traditional attire will come together to perform the majestic Manau dance, moving in perfect harmony around the sacred Manau posts.

The air will resonate with the rhythmic chants of “Ora, Ora, Ora Ra Ga”, inviting every onlooker to feel the pulse of Singpho culture. Visitors will witness not just performances, but a living heritage - authentic, proud, and deeply rooted in values of peace and mutual respect.

Set against the serene backdrop of lush forests and rolling hills, Miao offers an experience that soothes the soul. The festival ground becomes a meeting place of cultures, where guests from across Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and beyond are welcomed with open hearts.

Traditional cuisine, indigenous crafts, folklore, and warm hospitality await those who choose to be part of this grand gathering.

In a world often divided by differences, Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi stands as a powerful reminder that culture unites, tradition strengthens, and peace endures.

The Singpho community, known for its disciplined, law-abiding, and harmonious way of life, extends this invitation as a message of goodwill to all, irrespective of region, language, or belief.

Join us in celebrating identity, diversity, and togetherness. Come witness a festival where history dances, values sing, and unity triumphs.

From 12 to 15 February 2026, let Miao be your destination, and let the 42nd Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi become a memory etched forever in your heart", invites Pisi Suriya Singpho, general secretary 42nd Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi Celebration Committee 2026.

04/02/2026

Tai Khamti Singpho Council demands judicial probe

[Indrajit Tingwa]
TMT | NAMSAI | 4 Feb 2026: The Tai Khamti Singpho Council (TKSC) has demanded a judicial probe into the death of Head Constable Chow Chikseng Manpang to unearth any lapses or negligence that might have led to his tragic death.

Manpang was reportedly attacked and killed by a tiger family on Monday evening, while he was riding a bike on his way to Roing from Anini in Dibang Valley district.

The demand was made during a media briefing regarding Manpang’s death here on Wednesday. The TKSC conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

Addressing the media, TKSC secretary general Chow Jaling Mannow rued that despite reports of tiger sightings in the Mayudia area, a famous tourism spot, the wildlife authorities or the administration failed to take precautions like putting up warning signs or declaring the area a tiger corridor.

The council also demanded that the department of environment, forests and climate change hike the compensation amount from Rs. 10 lakh to Rs. 50 lakh. The council opined that since the deceased is survived by an octogenarian father, his wife, and four children, who are studying, a monetary compensation of Rs. 50 lakh will somehow facilitate the family to come to terms with and tide over the hardships that lie ahead after the sudden and tragic loss.

It further demanded that the government offer a regular job to the eldest child and daughter of the deceased, who is studying in BA second year on compensatory and compassionate grounds, which is possible with her qualification.

The council also stated that no higher officials from the police department have yet visited the bereaved family.

It further appealed for a halt to the sharing of the images and videos of the mutilated remains of the deceased on social media platforms, terming it as disrespectful to the departed soul and an insensitive act.

The council stated it will pursue with all democratic options available, if the demands were not met.

The mortal remains of Manpang were given a guard of honour by the Namsai police before the last rites were conducted by family members, friends and relatives at Namsai on Wednesday.

04/02/2026

IT Department conducts wide-ranging raids on business network of Ratan Sharma

TMT | KHARSANG | 4 February 2026: The Income Tax (IT) Department on Tuesday launched a major crackdown on the business network of industrialist Ratan Sharma, by carrying out simultaneous raids at multiple locations across Arunachal Pradesh and Assam in connection with an alleged tax-evasion case.

The coordinated operation covered key industrial hubs in Kharsang in Changlang district and Tippi in West Kameng district.
In Tippi, a team of IT officials, supported by central armed police forces, arrived at the premises of Platinum Alloys Private Limited, a ferro-silicon manufacturing unit, and began a detailed inspection of documents, digital records and financial transactions.

Almost simultaneously, another IT team reached Kharsang Industry LLP at Kharsang, a coal-based coke manufacturing unit, as part of the same investigation. The unit has a 10 per cent equity stake held by the Arunachal Pradesh Mineral Development & Trading Corporation Ltd (APMDTCL), a state government undertaking.

In Kharsang, the IT department sought assistance from the local police, who accompanied the officials to ensure security and maintain order during the operation.

The raids were not limited to Sharma’s enterprises alone. The business interests of Navin Singhal of Coal Pulz Pvt Ltd were also searched. Coal Pulz Pvt Ltd is a joint venture between industrialists Naveen Singhal and Ratan Sharma, and had previously secured the mining rights for the Namchik–Nampuk coal block.

Despite the scale of the operation, no official statement has yet been issued by the IT department regarding the total number of locations covered or the precise nature of the alleged financial irregularities under investigation. Authorities have so far maintained silence as the searches continue.

“The Income Tax department conducts such operations independently and does not usually inform local authorities in advance. However, whenever assistance is sought, especially for security, we extend full cooperation,” a senior official based in Itanagar said.

Sources also indicated that Ratan Sharma and his family have extensive industrial interests across Arunachal Pradesh. These reportedly include Platinum Alloys Pvt Ltd at Tippi; SMS Smelter Ltd and Shree Salasar Industries at Lekhi; and several units at the Banderdewa Industrial Estate, namely Satyam Ispat (North East) Limited, Satyaratan Ispat, Sunshine Industries, and Satyam Steel and Alloys.

As the raids continue across multiple districts and linked business entities, the operation is being viewed as one of the most significant IT actions in the region in recent times. Further details are expected to emerge once the department concludes its searches and releases an official briefing.

04/02/2026

CM urges compassionate, time-bound solution for Vijaynagar settlers

TMT | ITANAGAR | 4 February 2026: During the screening of the documentary “The Untold Story of Vijaynagar” at the Banquet Hall, Niti Vihar, Itanagar, on Wednesday, Chief Minister Pema Khandu called for a compassionate, time-bound and consultative approach to resolve the decades-old issues of the Vijaynagar settlers who have lived, struggled and stood guard in one of Arunachal Pradesh’s most isolated border regions for the last six decades.

In a moment filled with honesty, reflection and hope, the Chief Minister described the settlers as the quiet guardians of the frontier, who chose duty over comfort and silence over protest.

In the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, ministers, MLAs and other dignitaries, Khandu praised filmmaker Papai Nalo and his team and said the documentary gently yet powerfully uncovers a forgotten chapter of history.

Built on nearly two years of fieldwork, the film captures the pain, patience and perseverance of those who were relocated to Vijaynagar in the 1960s with promises that remained largely unfulfilled.
“This is not merely a film,” the Chief Minister said. “It is a mirror held up to our conscience.”

Sharing his personal experiences, Khandu recalled visiting Vijaynagar by helicopter and later braving rough roads to reach the area. He said the journey itself reflects the reality of the settlers’ lives, long, difficult and uncertain.

“When roads do not reach people, development also stops short. Without connectivity, even the strongest will feel forgotten,” he said.

Khandu acknowledged the collective failure of both the Centre and successive state governments in addressing the settlers’ legitimate concerns. Many among them were former Assam Rifles personnel, encouraged to settle in a strategic border area, only to face premature retirement, denial of benefits, lack of land security and a deep-rooted identity crisis passed down to their children.

“These families served the nation with loyalty, yet waited decades for recognition,” Khandu said, adding that their suffering deserves empathy, not delay.

Referring to the 2025 High Court directive on resolving land-related issues, the Chief Minister informed that the land department and the Changlang deputy commissioner are already engaged in the process. He assured that the chief secretary would personally monitor progress to ensure that action replaces assurance.

Stressing Arunachal Pradesh’s sensitive social and constitutional framework, Khandu said the solution must emerge through dialogue and understanding. He called for inclusive consultations with local tribes, community-based organisations, apex tribal bodies and all stakeholders.

“Our diversity is our strength. Solutions born out of consultation will endure,” he said, cautioning against speculation and emotional rhetoric.

Drawing inspiration from the state’s progress in resolving other complex issues such as the Assam - Arunachal boundary dispute and the Chakma - Hajong matter, Khandu expressed confidence that the Vijaynagar settler's issue too would find a fair and humane resolution through cooperation between the state and central governments.

As the documentary now reaches wider audiences through digital platforms, Chief Minister said the story of Vijaynagar will no longer remain confined to distant hills.
“When a forgotten story is finally heard, it demands justice. And when justice is delayed no more, trust is restored,” he said.

04/02/2026

State government makes bureaucratic reshuffle

TMT | ITANAGAR | 4 Feb 2026: Eight Arunachal Pradesh Civil Service (APCS) officers have been transferred by the state government.

Joint secretary to the Chief Minister and Additional Resident Commissioner, Guwahati, Dilip Kumar Chutia has been posted as West Kameng deputy commissioner, according to the notification issued by Chief Secretary Manish Gupta.

Tax, Excise & Narcotics commissioner Lobsang Tsering will take charge as Papum Pare deputy commissioner.

Kalaktang additional deputy commissioner Mindo Loyi will replace Techu Aran as the West Siang deputy commissioner. Aran has been transferred and posted as Tirap deputy commissioner.

Social Justice Empowerment & Tribal Affairs joint secretary Gobi Nyigyor has been posted as Lower Siang deputy commissioner, in place of Rujjum Rakshap, who will be the Tourism director.

Tirap deputy commissioner Liyi Bagra has been posted as Director of the State Council of Educational Research and Training.

04/02/2026

DCM Chowna Mein holds the forest department responsible for tiger attack

TMT | ITANAGAR | 04 February 2026:
The fatal tiger attack in Dibang Valley has triggered sharp criticism from Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who squarely blamed the forest department for what he described as a preventable tragedy caused by official inaction.

Reacting to the death of a police head constable along the Roing - Anini road, Mein said the incident exposed serious gaps in wildlife monitoring, public safety measures and inter-departmental coordination. “This was not an unforeseen incident. The danger was known, yet nothing was done. That failure has cost a human life,” he said.

According to the Deputy Chief Minister, reports of tiger movement in the Mayodia stretch had surfaced nearly a month ago. Videos and photographs circulating on social media had clearly indicated the presence of big cats close to the highway. “When citizens could see and share this information, it was the responsibility of the forest department to act immediately. Advisories, travel restrictions and on ground monitoring should have been enforced,” Mein stated.

He noted that no warnings were issued to commuters, nor were precautionary steps taken to regulate night travel or alert the motorcyclists traveling alone. “The absence of even basic preventive measures points to negligence. Wildlife protection cannot come at the cost of human safety,” he added.

The victim, Chiksen Mangpang, a head constable from Manfaiseng village in Namsai district, was attacked on Sunday night while returning home after duty. Preliminary accounts suggest he was riding alone through the forested Mayodia area when he was attacked. A truck driver who was present at the spot reportedly saw a large animal drag the constable off the road. His motorcycle was later found abandoned along the highway.

Following the incident, forest and police departments have launched a joint operation to assess the site and determine the exact cause of death. The Divisional Forest Officer, Roing said investigations are continuing to confirm whether the attack was carried out by a tiger.

Meanwhile, Mein said the response after the tragedy, though necessary, does not absolve prior lapses. He informed that forest teams equipped with tranquillising gear have now been deployed to track the animal. “The tiger must be located, tranquillised and relocated to a safer habitat to prevent further loss of life,” he said.

Stressing the need for accountability, the Deputy Chief Minister said responsibility would be fixed for the failure to act on early warnings. “This incident should serve as a lesson. Departments entrusted with public safety must act on information in real time. Silence and delay are not options when lives are at stake,” he said.

The tragedy has renewed calls for stronger wildlife - human conflict management policies in Arunachal Pradesh, especially in sensitive forest corridors where highways pass through tiger habitats.

The Miao Times

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