Itanagar: A 24-hour bandh called by the Ziro unit of the ST Bachao Andolan Committee in protest against the alleged illegal construction of mosques disrupted normal life in parts of Arunachal Pradesh’s Lower Subansiri district on Wednesday, though authorities said the shutdown remained peaceful.
The shutdown began at 5 am, with police reporting that most shops remained closed, offices saw thin attendance, and vehicular movement was largely absent in the affected areas.
Lower Subansiri Superintendent of Police Keni Bagra said the situation was calm and no untoward incidents had been reported. The protesters are demanding the demolition of two mosques currently under construction—one at Suluya in Old Ziro and the other at Pare Ami in Hapoli.
Police said the constructions lack proper documentation and are being carried out on the basis of deeds of agreement entered into with landowners. The SP added that demonstrators were cooperating with the district administration and the police.
“They have stayed away from the highway, which has been kept open for commuters. The highway passing through Ziro is a vital link for people travelling to and from Kamle and Upper Subansiri districts,” Bagra said.
Officials said protesters allowed students appearing for Class 5 and Class 8 state pre-board examinations, as well as Class 10 pre-board examinations, to sit for their tests.
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On Tuesday, Lower Subansiri deputy commissioner-in-charge Hage Tarung had issued prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, declaring the bandh illegal.
