Arunachal Pradesh Faces Controversy Over Illegal Immigration Campaign

Arunachal Pradesh is currently facing a significant controversy surrounding a campaign led by the Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organization (APIYO) aimed at identifying illegal immigrants and inspecting mosques. This initiative has sparked heated debates and accusations of communal targeting, particularly following a viral incident at a local mosque. As tensions rise, the state government has intervened to maintain order, while political parties are voicing their concerns over potential communal divisions. The situation raises critical questions about balancing the rights of indigenous communities with the need for security and transparency in immigration matters.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 4, 2025, 14:46 IST

Political Sensitivity in Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh is currently at a critical juncture of social sensitivity and political debate. Reports indicate that an initiative aimed at verifying the legitimacy of illegal mosques and identifying suspected undocumented immigrants has escalated into a significant controversy. Central to this issue is the Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organization (APIYO), which has been inspecting mosques and scrutinizing the documents of individuals it suspects may be illegal immigrants. The organization asserts that this campaign is not targeting any specific community but is focused on curbing illegal infiltration and unauthorized structures.

APIYO's Leadership and Claims

Taro Sonam Liak, the president of APIYO, is emerging as a prominent figure in Arunachal Pradesh. He emphasizes that there is no communal agenda behind their campaign, stating that it is not against any religion but specifically aimed at Bangladeshi nationals entering the state without valid documentation. He has accused some individuals of spreading edited videos and has filed complaints against those making false allegations.

Viral Debate at Naharlagun Mosque

A heated debate that took place on November 27 at the Naharlagun Jama Masjid has recently gone viral on social media. In the video, two officials from APIYO, General Secretary Tapor Meying and President Taro Sonam Liak, are seen demanding that the mosque's cleric chant 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai.' As the crowd in the mosque grew, tensions escalated. The cleric responded with 'India Zindabad,' but APIYO members insisted he repeat their slogan.

Controversial Remarks and Campaigns

During the debate, Taro Sonam Liak's remark, 'Not every Muslim is a terrorist, but why is every terrorist a Muslim?' also gained traction online. APIYO has been conducting a campaign against illegal immigrants and unauthorized religious structures for the past month. On November 25, the organization called for a shutdown in protest against a reportedly illegal mosque under construction near the Naharlagun helipad, but the shutdown was lifted after assurances from the Home Department.

Government Intervention and Political Reactions

In response to the escalating situation, the state government has intervened. Home Minister Mama Natung has instructed district officials to ensure that no individual takes the law into their own hands. He assured that there would be no discrimination against anyone based on religion, caste, or tribe. Meanwhile, the Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee has accused the BJP government of allowing communal divisions to grow, asserting that the state must not become a 'laboratory for divisive politics.' The party has called for thorough checks on illegal immigrants, verification of religious structures, and strict action against those spreading hatred.

Balancing Community Rights and Security

Amidst these accusations and counter-accusations, many citizens believe that the real challenge lies in ensuring fair treatment for all communities while protecting the identity of indigenous people. Arunachal Pradesh is known for its culture of peace, mutual trust, and coexistence. It is also true that any state has the right to verify who is entering its borders without permission. However, this right is only valid and effective when accompanied by transparency, sensitivity, and accountability.