Staff Reporter 

ITANAGAR, May 15: The second day of the 36-hour bandh called by the Arunachal ST Bachao Andolan Committee (ASTBAC) witnessed massive public participation across the Itanagar Capital Region, as thousands of youths, women, students and members of the public joined peaceful demonstrations demanding the immediate release of ASTBAC leaders Sol Dodum, Tana Tamar, Milo Ambo and other volunteers detained by police during the ongoing agitation.
The bandh continued despite the State Cabinet’s decision earlier in the day to strengthen and digitalize the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in Arunachal Pradesh.
Large rallies and protest marches were carried out across several locations of ICR. Many voluntarily joined the march from Nahargun to Itanagar. However, the situation turned tense at some places after a section of youths allegedly resorted to stone pelting on police vehicles, triggering brief clashes and panic. Amid the unrest, several roads remained blocked for hours, while a number of vehicles were reportedly damaged during the protests.
By afternoon, in a significant development, the administration released key ASTBAC leaders from different jails across the state. Sol Dodum was released from Jollang Jail, Tana Tamar from Tezu Jail, and Milo Ambo from Pasighat Jail as well as other volunteers. Following their release, large numbers of agitators gathered at IG Park in Itanagar awaiting the arrival of the leaders.
Speaking to supporters, ASTBAC Issue Chairperson Milo Ambo stated that although the 36-hour bandh officially concluded on Thursday evening, the agitation would continue until authorities give a written assurance on the core demands raised by the committee, including streamlining of ILP system to stop illegal influx. 
Meanwhile, the violence during the bandh left several police personnel injured. Among the injured was Sub-Inspector Tamo Bakhang, who sustained a serious eye injury while performing his duty near 6 Kilo, Itanagar. According to reports, SI Bakhang was heading towards the protest site when miscreants allegedly attacked his vehicle by pelting stones. The shattered windshield caused severe injuries to his eyes.
He was initially rushed to Niba Hospital and later referred to TRIHMS. Doctors reportedly informed that sharp glass cuts on his eyeballs could lead to permanent loss of vision or partial visual impairment. Due to the seriousness of the injury, he has now been referred to Delhi for advanced treatment.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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