The Network

02/03/2026

Mato Bui, Aspiring Candidate for General Secretary AAPSU (2026–2029), Holds Interaction with NERIST PG & PhD Scholars; Vows Student-Centric and Issue-Oriented Leadership

Mato Bui, aspiring candidate for the post of General Secretary of the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) for the tenure 2026–2029, held a focused interaction programme with PG and PhD scholars of the North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST), drawing active participation from the research community.

During the interaction programme, Mr. Mato emphasized his vision of a student-centric and issue-oriented leadership, stating that the role of AAPSU must extend beyond rhetoric to addressing real academic and infrastructural challenges faced by students.

Meanwhile the scholars highlighted key grievances, particularly concerning hostel facilities and the urgent need for better-equipped laboratories to enhance research and academic standards. Responding positively, Mr. Mato assured the gathering that these concerns would be pursued with the concerned authorities through consistent and constructive dialogue.

Further Mr Bui addressed on the 80:20 ratio issue, describing it as a sensitive and significant matter that requires balanced representation and responsible advocacy. Reiterating his stand, Mr. Mato pledged to remain committed to safeguarding student interests through transparency and accountability.

The large turnout of PG and PhD scholars reflected encouraging engagement, marking the programme as a meaningful step in his outreach efforts amid the ongoing AAPSU electoral process.

18/02/2026

Mato Bui, aspiring Candidate for General Secretary AAPSU engages RGU PhD Scholars, Unveils Reform-Focused amidst AAPSU polls.

Mato Bui, aspiring candidate for the post of General Secretary of the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU), held a mass interaction programme with PhD scholars of Rajiv Gandhi University under the theme “Go Green, Grow Green – Sustainable Action Today for Thriving Legacy Tomorrow.”

While the interaction centered on sustainability and environmental responsibility, Bui utilized the platform to articulate his broader reform-driven agenda for the student community across Arunachal Pradesh.

An official candidate of the All Upper Subansiri District Students’ Union (AUSDSU), Bui brings prior experience as Assistant General Secretary of DNGCSU, Finance Secretary of AUSDSU, and Advisor to AUSDSU, reflecting his longstanding involvement in student leadership.

Presenting his manifesto, Bui proposed restructuring the existing 80:20 job reservation policy to 100% APST reservation to safeguard employment opportunities for APST aspirants. He also pledged to press for the establishment of well-equipped CUET and NET examination centres within the state to ease the burden on aspirants.

Further, he advocated for mandatory APST reservation in premier institutions such as NERIST and NIT (A.P) with clear policy guidelines and strict enforcement. He proposed the introduction of new undergraduate courses including Anthropology, Psychology, Social Work, Library Science, and AITS in government colleges to enhance academic scope and employability prospects.

Bui also emphasized strict regulation of private colleges and universities to maintain academic standards, legal enforcement of minimum wages for guest faculty and private school teachers, and firm implementation of Section 12(1)(c) of the RTE Act mandating 25% reservation in private schools for economically weaker and disadvantaged children.

Reaffirming his commitment to structural reforms and student welfare, Mato Bui called for collective participation in building a stronger and more accountable student leadership framework.

15/02/2026

Techi Tannu,aspiring candidate for the post of Secretary, Women Affairs Unveils Bold Women-Centric Agenda for AAPSU 2026–2029, Pledges Safety, Dignity and Structural Reforms Across Arunachal

With a firm message of “Empowering Women, Leading Forward,” Miss Techi Tannu, aspiring candidate for the post of Secretary, Women Affairs, in the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) for the 2026–2029 tenure, has laid out a comprehensive and reform-driven vision aimed at strengthening safety, dignity and opportunities for women across Arunachal Pradesh.

A former Women Wing Convener of AAPSU, Tannu brings both administrative experience and academic depth to the fray. Holding a B.A., M.A., B.Ed., and currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Geography, she stated that her academic journey and grassroots involvement have shaped her understanding of structural inequalities and the need for policy-driven change. “Experience in student leadership is not just about holding a post; it is about accountability, crisis response, and sustained engagement,” she remarked, emphasizing that responsibility grows with exposure and commitment.

Reflecting on her tenure as Women Wing Convener, she acknowledged challenges such as addressing harassment cases, coordinating with authorities, and ensuring institutional responsiveness. She cited instances where AAPSU intervened to support victims of abuse and discrimination, reaffirming that justice and confidentiality remain central to her approach.

On key priorities if elected, Tannu highlighted institutional safety reforms, menstrual health infrastructure, education reforms, and community-level awareness as her top focus areas. Her manifesto outlines ten structured commitments, including
• Ensuring all girls’ residential schools are staffed exclusively by female personnel to foster trust and safety.
• Installing sanitary napkin incinerators and hygiene facilities in colleges and universities to promote menstrual health and dignity.
• Monitoring effective implementation of the Swachh Vidyalaya initiative under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Ministry of Education).
• Coordinating with the government to establish functional women’s helplines in every women police station across Arunachal Pradesh for rapid response.
• Launching statewide campaigns against child labour with strict monitoring.
• Advocating for government-level rehabilitation centres in eastern districts including Namsai, Tirap, Changlang and Longding to support vulnerable children.
• Organizing awareness programmes on the POCSO Act, psychological counselling, HIV/AIDS awareness, and comprehensive s*x education.
• Hosting a Women’s Conclave aligned with the 33% reservation for women in elections to groom future leaders.
• Conducting periodic health camps and distributing hygiene kits and nutritional supplies in collaboration with NGOs at orphanages such as Oju Welfare Association and Nani Maria Children’s Home.

On the proposal for distributing free sanitary pads in schools, Tannu affirmed that access to menstrual hygiene products is directly linked to attendance, confidence, and retention of girl students. She stated that coordinated implementation with school authorities and health departments would ensure sustainability and accountability.

Meanwhile Addressing the issue of comprehensive s*x education, she supported structured, age-appropriate awareness to prevent abuse, misinformation, and stigma. “True women empowerment,” she asserted, “is when safety, health, education, and leadership opportunities are not privileges but guarantees.”

Calling for reforms in Arunachal Pradesh’s education system to address gender sensitivity and institutional safety, Tannu emphasized that policy must translate into visible change at the grassroots level.

Concluding her message to students and young voters, she urged them to choose leadership based on vision, integrity, and long-term commitment rather than rhetoric. “This election is not just about a post; it is about building systems that protect, uplift, and empower every girl and woman in our state,” Tannu added.

As the AAPSU elections approach, Techi Tannu’s campaign signals a focused push toward institutional reforms, welfare-driven governance, and a more inclusive student movement for the 2026–2029 term.

09/02/2026

Journalist Om Bahadur Passes Away; Media Fraternity in Mourning

Itanagar, Feb 09: The media fraternity of Arunachal Pradesh was plunged into deep grief on Monday following the untimely demise of Om Bahadur, a senior cameraman associated with Eastern Journal, who passed away after suffering a sudden stroke at Heema Hospital here.

He was only 29.

According to medical reports, Bahadur was brought dead to the hospital after collapsing at his residence. Family members said he was in normal health and was playing with his young child at home when he suddenly suffered the stroke, leaving his loved ones and colleagues shocked by the tragic turn of events.

Bahadur is survived by his wife and a one-year-old son, who had celebrated her first birthday just days earlier on January. His sudden passing has left his family grappling with an immeasurable loss and deep uncertainty.
Before joining Eastern Journal, Bahadur had worked with CDCN and Arunachal Headlines, earning a reputation for professionalism and dedication. Soft-spoken and down-to-earth, he was widely respected across the media fraternity.

Through his lens, he captured countless moments, stories and struggles, often from the frontlines, reflecting his quiet yet steadfast commitment to journalism.

Expressing profound sorrow, the Arunachal Press Club (APC) and the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ), in a joint press statement, extended their deepest condolences on the sudden demise of Om Bahadur and conveyed heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family.

“The passing of Om Bahadur marks a significant loss to the media fraternity of Arunachal Pradesh. He will be remembered for his commitment to journalism and his warm, humble personality,” APC President Amar Sangno said.

The APUWJ, while mourning the demise of one of its senior members, described Bahadur’s sudden passing as an irreparable loss to the state’s media community.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his bereaved wife and young daughter. May the departed soul rest in eternal peace, and may the family find the strength and courage to bear this profound loss,” APUWJ President Dodum Yangfo stated.

Echoing the sentiment, APUWJ General Secretary Sonam Jelly said, “We remember him as a dedicated professional and a humble colleague who earned the respect and affection of all.”

The union added that the void left by Om Bahadur’s untimely demise will be deeply felt, not only by his family and colleagues, but by the entire journalistic community he served with sincerity and grace.

05/02/2026

“I cannot give jobs to unemployed youths, but I can give opportunities to unemployed youths,”remarked Meje Taku, aspiring candidate for the presidential post of the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU), underlining his commitment to creating platforms and avenues for youth empowerment.

Meje Taku, aspiring candidate for the presidential post of the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU), has strongly refuted the collection of registration fees from students, asserting that the enrolment committee should directly visit universities and colleges to ease the process and reduce the burden on students.

Expressing gratitude to his followers and supporters, Meje acknowledged the overwhelming wave of positive feedback circulating across social media platforms round the clock, stating that such encouragement strengthens his resolve to work for the student community.

Meanwhile Highlighting key policy concerns, Meje laid emphasis on reservation policies in Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), NERIST, NITs and various commissions, calling for proper streamlining to ensure justice and transparency. He stressed the need for mandatory PRC and ST status in reservation policies, alongside a strong focus on improving the quality of education across institutions.

Addressing the growing unemployment issue, Meje remarked, “I cannot give jobs to unemployed youths, but I can give opportunities to unemployed youths,” underlining his commitment to creating platforms and avenues for youth empowerment.

Meje further affirmed that, if elected president, he would restore the post of Women Wing President, which was earlier struck out as per AAPSU bylaws, and prioritise addressing women-related grievances within the student body.

Calling for the peaceful conduct of the AAPSU elections, Meje appealed to the election committee to ensure a fair and unbiased process, urging them not to be one-sided. He stated that this is a crucial moment for students to choose their leader, reiterating that the AAPSU President must remain the true voice of the state.

Concluding his address, Meje urged students to be wise in their choice, asserting that responsible leadership today will shape the future of Arunachal Pradesh tomorrow.

05/02/2026

Debia Muj, aspiring candidate for the post of President, All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU), on Tuesday raised serious concerns over the dilapidated facilities and poor infrastructure of government-run schools across the state.

Addressing a press briefing held at the NEFA Club, Debia Muj highlighted the urgent need for systemic reforms in the education sector, particularly at the grassroots level.

Opposing the imposition of delegates’ registration fees, Muj strongly condemned the growing money culture in student politics, stating that leadership should be earned through vision and credibility rather than financial influence. He asserted that elections must remain a platform for character and leadership building, not a marketplace for votes.

Outlining his vision for students’ welfare, Debia said his primary focus as AAPSU president would be to revive defunct government schools, especially in rural and interior areas, where public institutions have been neglected while huge investments continue to flow into private schools. He stressed that strengthening government schools is essential to ensure equitable and accessible education for all.

Further Muj advocated for the introduction of government stipends from Class I itself, instead of limiting financial assistance to higher secondary levels, arguing that early support plays a crucial role in shaping a student’s academic foundation.

Calling for electoral integrity, he appealed for genuine voters and cautioned against dual loyalties in student elections, emphasizing that honest participation is vital for building a strong and accountable student leadership. He reaffirmed his commitment to student-centric policies and inclusive development within the education system.

28/01/2026

Yomli Poyom, former Vice President (Protocol) of the West Siang District Students’ Union (WSDSU), has been jointly declared as the official candidate for the post of Assistant General Secretary (Protocol) in the forthcoming All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) General Conference-cum-Election 2026–29.

An experienced student leader, Poyom has served as Returning Officer during the 19th General Conference-cum-Election of Kargu Kardi Students’ Union (KKSU), Darak in 2022; Returning Officer during the 8th General Conference-cum-Election of WSDSU at Sessi Likar in 2023; Organising Chairman of the Golden Jubilee Celebration of KKSU at Tirbin, Leparada district in 2023; Returning Officer during the 20th General Conference-cum-Election of KKSU at Yomcha in 2025; former Vice President (Protocol) of WSDSU; and former Spokesperson of the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU).

The declaration was jointly made by the West Siang District Students’ Union (WSDSU), All Leparada District Students’ Union (ALDSU), and All Lower Siang District Students’ Union (ALSDSU), reflecting a rare consensus among the three district units. The collective endorsement highlights confidence in Yomli Poyom’s organisational capability, institutional experience, and continued commitment to strengthening student representation at the state level.

Meanwhile Poyom, assured that he would work with sincerity and responsibility on all student-oriented issues, emphasising inclusive representation and the protection of students’ interests across the state.

27/01/2026

Team Mato Bui Organises Jersey Launching cm Interaction Programme

The Jersey Launching cm Interaction Programme of Team Mato Bui, an aspiring candidate for the post of General Secretary, Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) successfully held amid overwhelming support and active participation from students and supporters.

The programme served as an interactive platform where Team Mato Bui shared its vision, priorities, and commitment towards student welfare and inclusive leadership. The enthusiastic response reflected growing confidence and trust in the team’s approach and leadership.

Meanwhile expressing gratitude, Team Mato Bui thanked the participants for their love, encouragement, and continued support, reaffirming the collective resolve to move forward together towards the AAPSU 2026–29 tenure.

18/01/2026

Declares Tem Kutung (Secretary IPR), Gollo Kaya (Co-Convenor) and Tassar Levi (Secretary Debate & Symposium) as Official Candidates for AAPSU Polls.

All Papum Pare District Students’ Union (APPDSU) has officially declared its candidates for three key posts for the forthcoming Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) election.

Former IPR Secretary of the Rajiv Gandhi University Research Scholars’ Forum (RGURSF), Tem Kutung, has been nominated as APPDSU’s official candidate for the post of Secretary, Information and Publicity (IPR). Kutung is widely recognised for his active engagement in student advocacy, research coordination, and communication initiatives.

Gollo Kaya has been nominated as the official candidate for the post of Co-Convenor, while Tassar Levi has been declared as the candidate for Secretary, Debate and Symposium.

Speaking on the occasion, APPDSU President Gollo Lento stated that the candidates were selected after thorough consultation and evaluation of their leadership potential, dedication, and commitment towards student welfare. He expressed confidence that the nominees would uphold the values of APPDSU and work sincerely for the collective interest of students under the AAPSU platform.

Meanwhile President Lento further appealed to the student community to maintain unity, discipline, and democratic spirit during the election process and to ensure that the election remains peaceful, transparent, and issue oriented.

Further APPDSU reiterated its commitment to strengthening student representation and contributing constructively to the development of AAPSU and the student community across Arunachal Pradesh.

27/12/2025

Mass Protest Rally Held in Itanagar Against Alleged Illegal Bangladeshi Claims in North East

Itanagar witnessed a massive protest rally on Saturday as thousand of people took to the streets against alleged illegal Bangladeshi claims in the North East, raising the slogan “One Arunachal, One North East, United India.” The rally was organised jointly by the Indigenous Youth Force of Arunachal (IYFA), Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO) and the All Naharlagun Youth Organisation (ANYO).

The protest march began from Akashdeep and culminated at the Tennis Court in Itanagar, with participants carrying placards and raising slogans demanding protection of indigenous rights, demographic security and strict action against illegal activities within the Twin Capital Region of Itanagar–Naharlagun.

Meanwhile The organisers placed several key demands before the authorities, demanding immediate cancellation of what they termed as illegal construction of a Jama Masjid/madrasa within the Twin Capital Complex, along with the identification and removal of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants from Arunachal Pradesh.

Additionally, they urged the government to immediately ban weekly markets operating within the Twin Capital Complex and nearby areas such as Doimukh and Hollongi, alleging that such markets facilitate illegal settlement and activities.

Further Leaders of the youth organizations warned that failure to address their demands could lead to intensified democratic agitation in the coming days. They reiterated that the movement is aimed at safeguarding the identity, land and rights of indigenous people while maintaining unity and integrity of the nation.

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07/12/2025