Arunachal: Itanagar residents irked as BJP blocks roads for campaign rallies

Widespread public frustration has surfaced in the capital after the ruling BJP party blocked major roads, market lanes and the National Highway for political campaigning ahead of the civic body and panchayat elections. 

Residents termed the move “unwarranted misuse” of public roads, disrupting normal traffic flow and daily business.

On Saturday, NH-415 near Chandan Nagar witnessed a one-lane blockade as BJP workers held a campaign gathering, reportedly with administrative permission. The situation drew sharp objections from locals who said that public property cannot be treated as private political space. 

Social activist Sol Dodum strongly opposed the disruption, stating that such activities should not be allowed on a crucial national highway. He demanded that authorities ensure public convenience is not compromised for political events.

A local resident remarked that political parties cannot use national highways according to their personal whims and added that judicial action may be needed to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Reacting to the controversy, Capital MLA and BJP star campaigner Techi Kaso said the blockade was not intentional and attributed it to excitement among party workers. 

Kaso added that the rally was relocated immediately after receiving feedback. He maintained that the BJP is a disciplined organisation committed to "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" and clarified that public interaction is crucial for communicating welfare schemes to voters.

However, public outrage rose again after Gandhi Market’s main lane near the Itanagar Police Station was blocked for nearly two hours, causing inconvenience to residents and traders.

The recurring blockades have sparked demands for better regulation of political rallies during the campaign period, with many insisting that public convenience must remain a priority.