Arunachal CM Pema Khandu urges Changlang students to follow SIR rules, says complaints must be filed through proper process

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has appealed to students, youth and residents of Changlang district to maintain peace and follow the rules governing the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR), saying any deviation from the prescribed process should be reported through written complaints to the appropriate authorities.

Speaking about the violence reported in Changlang during an interaction, Khandu said the SIR was being conducted in the state after nearly two decades and that the rules governing the exercise clearly specify the documents required from applicants and their parents, as well as the procedure for submitting them.

“The rules are very clear,” Khandu said, stressing that those who meet the prescribed eligibility criteria would be considered eligible, while those who do not meet the criteria would not qualify.

The Chief Minister appealed to committees and student bodies in Changlang not to attempt to influence the process. He said people should have confidence in the system and follow the procedures laid down for the SIR.

“If there is any deviation, please submit a complaint in writing, so that we can carry out further investigation into the matter,” Khandu said.

His remarks came against the backdrop of violence in Changlang, in which several people were injured. The Chief Minister urged students, youth and local residents to abide by the law and maintain peace and harmony while the review process is underway.

Khandu also spoke about his recent meetings with communities in the Taksing area, including representatives of the Na (Nga) and Mara communities, both of which are part of the Tagin society. He said he had held discussions with representatives and apex bodies of the two communities to understand the situation on the ground and hear their suggestions concerning developments along the India-China border.

The Chief Minister said he subsequently raised the concerns and suggestions during a recent meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi. He presented a ground report, the views of local residents and proposals for strengthening infrastructure in the border areas.

According to Khandu, the Defence Minister is concerned about the situation and the Centre is expected to provide the required infrastructure support to the border regions in the coming days.

Khandu also outlined the programme for Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan’s upcoming two-day visit to Arunachal Pradesh. He said the visit would be Radhakrishnan’s first to the state as Vice-President.

The Vice-President is scheduled to arrive in Arunachal Pradesh and attend programmes showcasing the state’s tribal and local cultures. A special session is also scheduled for September 9, during which the Vice-President will address the gathering.

Besides the special session, Radhakrishnan is expected to participate in other local programmes and visit important institutions during his stay.

The Chief Minister said the visit would provide an opportunity to highlight Arunachal Pradesh’s diverse tribal heritage and cultural traditions while also engaging with important institutions and programmes in the state.