| Staff REPORTER |
ITANAGAR, Oct 29: The Arunachal Indigenous Students’ Union (AISU) submitted a four-point demand to the Chief Minister, which includes a call for banning India-made foreign liquor (IMFL) in the state.
Addressing media persons at the Arunachal Press Club here today, AISU president Techi Talik said that the union has repeatedly submitted the memorandum but has yet to receive any response from the government. “Our demands are aimed at safeguarding the welfare and identity of the indigenous communities,” Talik stated.
The union’s demands include renaming of Indira Gandhi Park, Itanagar, as Abo Tani Park in memory of the great forefather of the Tani tribes, who constitute the majority of the state’s indigenous population; implementation of biometric attendance in all Govt schools across the state to curb teachers’ irregularities and ensure accountability in the education system.
It demanded a ban on IMFL and cancellation of wine shop licenses, particularly those located near schools, hostels, colleges, and university campuses. The union expressed concern over the unrestricted sale and consumption of liquor, stating that “students are openly consuming alcohol like soft drinks,” which poses a serious threat to youth health and discipline.
The students’ body also called for immediate implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978 to check religious conversions and preserve the cultural and religious identity of the indigenous communities.
Talik urged the Govt to take urgent action on their demands, emphasizing that the issues raised are critical to protecting the social and cultural fabric of Arunachal Pradesh.