Arunachal Pradesh Seals 15 Unauthorized Mosque Sites

The BJP-led government of India's northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh has sealed 15 mosque sites in the capital region of Itanagar following allegations that the structures were built without official permission. The move comes after sustained protests by a local tribal youth organization demanding action against what it described as illegal settlements and unauthorized religious structures.

According to Indian media reports, including NDTV, the issue gained prominence after the Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organization (APIYO) organized a symbolic 24-hour bandh in the capital area. The group demanded the removal of unauthorized religious structures and stronger measures against encroachment, warning of larger protests if its demands were not addressed.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, state government spokesperson and Education Minister PD Sona said the matter was formally raised during a high-level meeting between Chief Minister Pema Khandu and APIYO representatives in January.

Following the meeting, the chief minister directed district authorities to identify religious structures built without the required approvals in the capital region. A government survey subsequently identified 15 mosque sites that officials said lacked authorization.

According to the minister, authorities completed the required legal procedures before sealing and vacating 12 of the sites. A final decision regarding the remaining three sites was taken during a follow-up meeting between the chief minister and tribal leaders on June 1, after which those locations were also sealed.

The state government said the demands raised by the protesting organizations had been addressed through legal and administrative processes. Officials expressed hope that no further strikes or disruptions would be organized.

The issue has fueled debate in Arunachal Pradesh over unauthorized construction, demographic changes, land rights, and the protection of indigenous tribal communities. State officials have also highlighted concerns related to monitoring movement across the state's interstate and international borders.

In May, Chief Minister Pema Khandu chaired a consultative meeting involving student groups, tribal organizations, civil society representatives, legal experts, and political parties. Discussions focused on safeguarding tribal rights and strengthening the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, which regulates the entry of non-residents into the state.

The chief minister said the government remains committed to protecting the cultural heritage, constitutional safeguards, and security interests of indigenous communities. He added that border management and internal security remain important policy concerns for the state.

The Arunachal Pradesh government has also announced plans to establish a dedicated department to oversee and strengthen the implementation of the Inner Line Permit system. Officials say protecting tribal identity and cultural heritage within the framework of the law remains a key priority.