Arunachal Pradesh: The administration has sealed 15 illegal mosques in Itanagar.

Arunachal Pradesh ICR Seals 15 Unauthorised Mosque Sites Amid Push to Protect Indigenous Rights.

Upen Lama | HENB | Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh | June 06, 2026:: In a significant administrative action aimed at addressing concerns over unauthorised settlements and demographic changes, the Arunachal Pradesh government has sealed 15 mosque sites operating without mandatory approvals in the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR). The move follows months of verification, legal scrutiny, and growing pressure from indigenous organisations demanding stricter enforcement of laws governing land use and settlement patterns in the state.

The operation, carried out by the Itanagar Capital Region Administration on Thursday, was conducted peacefully under police supervision. Authorities stated that the affected institutions had been given multiple opportunities to submit documents related to registration, land ownership, construction permissions, and other mandatory government clearances. However, several sites failed to provide the required documentation despite repeated notices and sufficient time to comply.

According to administration officials, the issue first came under scrutiny earlier this year after complaints were lodged regarding the legitimacy of certain religious institutions operating within the capital region. A detailed verification exercise was subsequently launched to examine the legal status of these establishments.

Following the investigation, authorities identified 15 mosque sites that were allegedly operating without the necessary approvals. Notices were issued directing the institutions to suspend activities until compliance requirements were met. When the stipulated conditions remained unfulfilled, the administration proceeded with sealing the premises.

Officials emphasised that the action was taken only after due legal and administrative processes had been completed. The government maintained that enforcement measures were carried out in accordance with existing laws and regulations, with no reports of law-and-order disturbances during the operation.

Indigenous Organisations Welcome Action

The development comes against the backdrop of sustained campaigns by indigenous groups, particularly the Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO), which has repeatedly raised concerns about unauthorised constructions, illegal settlements, and demographic changes within the state.

APIYO had organised protests and announced agitation programmes, including shutdown calls in the capital region, demanding stronger government intervention. The organisation argued that unchecked migration and unauthorised settlement patterns could threaten the cultural identity, land rights, and traditional interests of indigenous tribal communities.

The sealing of the mosque sites is being viewed by many indigenous groups as a response to long-standing concerns regarding enforcement of regulations and protection of the state’s tribal character.

Government Announces High-Powered Committees

Amid the controversy, Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced the formation of four high-powered ministerial committees to address broader concerns related to indigenous rights and demographic issues.

The committees will focus on:

• Strengthening measures to prevent illegal infiltration.
• Reviewing and improving implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system.
• Re-verifying Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe (APST) certificates.
• Recommending safeguards to protect the rights and interests of indigenous communities.

The Chief Minister stated that the government remains committed to addressing concerns over illegal immigration, unauthorised settlements, and demographic changes through legal and constitutional mechanisms.

Verification Exercise Followed Representations

State government spokesperson and Education Minister P.D. Sona said the matter was formally raised during discussions between APIYO representatives and Chief Minister Khandu earlier this year.

Following those consultations, district authorities were instructed to investigate allegations concerning unauthorised religious structures. The subsequent verification exercise reportedly confirmed that the 15 mosque sites within the Capital Complex area lacked mandatory permissions required for operation.

Sona noted that the administration had acted on the concerns raised by indigenous organisations through established legal channels and expressed hope that the government’s actions would help ease tensions and prevent further agitation.

Wider Debate on Demographic Concerns

The issue has reignited debate over migration, settlement patterns, and demographic changes in Arunachal Pradesh, a state where indigenous tribal communities constitute a significant part of the population. Civil society organisations and tribal bodies have frequently expressed concerns that unauthorised settlements and constructions could place additional pressure on limited land resources and alter the state’s demographic balance.

Recent consultations convened by the Chief Minister brought together tribal organisations, student bodies, legal experts, civil society representatives, and political leaders to discuss these concerns. Participants examined issues relating to indigenous rights, demographic challenges, and regulatory mechanisms designed to safeguard local interests.

Future Action

The administration has indicated that further legal action may be taken wherever violations are identified. Officials have also reiterated that all institutions, regardless of their nature, must operate in compliance with applicable laws and government regulations.

As Arunachal Pradesh intensifies efforts to address concerns over illegal settlements and demographic changes, the sealing of the 15 unauthorised mosque sites marks one of the most visible enforcement actions undertaken by the state in recent years. The development is likely to remain a focal point in ongoing discussions about indigenous rights, immigration controls, and regulatory oversight in the strategically important northeastern state.
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_Agency Inputs.