An indefinite economic blockade called jointly by the All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU) and the All Nyishi Youth Association (ANYA) commenced across parts of Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday, with the agitation being enforced mainly at the Bhalukpong and Nichipu check gates in West Kameng district.
The blockade follows an ultimatum issued by the two organisations to the state government, demanding the immediate arrest of those allegedly involved in a series of attacks on members of the Nyishi community.
ANSU and ANYA have also alleged that local police failed to take adequate measures to prevent repeated clashes amid the ongoing tensions between the Aka and Nyishi communities.
The organisations decided to launch the blockade after their demands reportedly remained unresolved despite repeated appeals to the authorities.
Bhalukpong and Nichipu serve as key entry and transit points into Arunachal Pradesh, and the blockade is expected to disrupt vehicular movement as well as the transportation of essential commodities and other goods.
Reports suggest that the agitation has also spread to several other areas, including Upper Subansiri district, where demonstrations and protest programmes have been observed.
Meanwhile, the state government’s response to the demands and the full impact of the blockade on transport and public life are yet to become clear.
